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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Start by writing down how many boxes you expect, along with their rough dimensions and which room each one belongs to, since a simple numbered list makes the whole job easier to discuss with the team. Note anything that is not boxed, such as rolled carpets, loose shelving or appliances, and record whether any item has an awkward shape or a part that sticks out. If some belongings are heading to more than one address, list each destination and the name and phone number of the person receiving goods there. Mark which boxes need to arrive first, if that matters to you, purely as a note for your own planning. Once the list is complete, it becomes a straightforward reference when you ask which van size suits the load and the dates you have in mind.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Rather than assuming the whole job fits into a single morning, think through how long packing might realistically take and set the hire dates with that in mind. If you are still sealing boxes on the day, it may be worth booking the van from an earlier point, or even the evening before, so the schedule is not dictated by unfinished preparation. Write down the items you expect to pack last, such as bedding, kettle and chargers, and note which boxes are already sealed and stacked ready. Record the access arrangements at both ends, including any time windows set by a storage facility or a receiving contact. If part of the timing is still open, ask the team about extending or adjusting the dates when you request the van, and keep the answers with your notes.
Explore other van hire areas
What to confirm on the phone
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.