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.
Listing Hobby Equipment Before You Book
The decision worth making early is exactly which pieces of equipment are coming on the trip. If you are moving hobby gear, whether that is camping kit, model railway boards, diving cylinders or band equipment, start by writing each item down with its measurements. Note the longest pieces separately, as these often decide which van size to ask about, and record whether anything breaks down into smaller parts or stays fixed. Count the boxes, bags and loose accessories that go with the main items, since these add up quickly. If anything needs to stay upright or is unusually shaped, note that too. This list becomes the core of your enquiry, giving the team a clear picture of the load when you ask about hire dates and van options.
One Journey or Several: Making the Choice
When the load is spread across different locations or days, you may want to think through whether one hire period covers everything or several bookings work out more sensibly. List each collection or delivery point with its own timing, then consider whether the gaps between them are practical within a single hire. If a friend is only free on one day and a shop collection is booked for another, note both dates side by side. Record how many runs you expect in total and roughly what each involves. Where the plan is uncertain, ask whether a hire can be extended if the day changes shape. Setting this out on paper before you enquire makes it easier to explain the job and get a useful response.
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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.