Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Picking a suitable van
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Building a household move plan
What exactly is moving, and what is staying behind? Answer that in writing before anything else. Go through each room and list the items, noting approximate counts for boxes and recording the dimensions of larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and appliances so the load can be described accurately when you enquire. Flag anything fragile or unusually shaped, and keep a separate column for things being sold, donated or left in place. If belongings are heading to more than one destination, note which items go where, along with a contact name and number for each address. A room-by-room list also gives you something to check against on the day, letting you tick items off as they are delivered and raising any gaps while the move is still in progress.
Allowing realistic time for packing
Map out your calendar before fixing the hire dates. Count the rooms still to pack, estimate how many evenings or weekend hours each will take, and write that schedule down so the totals are visible rather than guessed. Identify anything that must stay unpacked until the last moment, such as daily medicines, work kit or documents, and plan for those separately. If friends or family are helping, note who is available on which days and record their numbers so you can confirm arrangements quickly. Where a collection from another address is involved, agree a window with the person there and add their contact details to the plan. Leaving a buffer day before the van is needed means an underestimated room does not force you to rearrange the booking at short notice.
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Last checks before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.