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.
Allowing Time For Packing And Loading
Start by writing down your planned schedule for the day, including when you expect to begin packing and when the van needs to be on the road. If you are moving home, note how many rooms need to be cleared and how many boxes you expect, and whether any items are awkwardly shaped or require particular care. For a storage run or furniture collection, record the opening times of the storage facility or the seller, so your hire window lines up with them. It can be worth asking the team whether extending the hire dates by a few hours or an extra day would change the price. Questions about access arrangements at both ends, such as parking or gate widths, are best directed to the property or site contacts, so note their details too.
Coordinating Helpers
If friends, family or colleagues are assisting with your move or delivery, list their names, phone numbers and the times they are free. Confirming availability before you finalise the hire dates means you are not booking a van for a day when your helpers cannot attend. Note how many people will be involved at each stage, since a crew van might be relevant if several helpers need to travel with you, and the team can confirm where this option is available. For business deliveries, record the recipient's contact details, including a phone number and any delivery window they have specified, so you can update them if timings change. Ask the team whether a crew van or a standard Transit suits the number of people travelling, and whether the dates you have in mind are workable. Keeping everyone's details on one list simplifies the day.
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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.