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.
Recording What Goes Where
If you are moving a mix of furniture and boxes, a written order of items can settle several questions before the van arrives. Rather than thinking about how things will be positioned, focus on recording what each item is: a wardrobe, two mattresses, six labelled boxes, and anything awkward such as a mirror or a rolled rug. Note approximate dimensions for the larger pieces and which room they came from, since that helps the team suggest whether a Luton or a dropside suits the job. If some items are staying behind or going to a second address, mark those separately so nothing is counted twice. You might also photograph anything fragile and keep the list with your booking notes. This record is for your own planning, and anything you remain unsure about can be raised with the team before you commit.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How much of your day will packing take? If you are hiring for a house move, it is worth sketching a rough timetable that starts before the van is due. Note when boxes need sealing, when drawers should be emptied and when appliances are disconnected, then decide who is handling each task. If friends are helping, agree arrival times with them separately from the hire period so the schedule stays realistic. For collections from a seller, ask them when the item can be picked up and build that window into your day. You may find it useful to keep a separate list of anything still to be packed on the morning itself. These choices sit with you, and if your timings shift, the team can be asked what options exist for adjusting the dates when you enquire.
Explore other van hire areas
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.