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.
Recording Your Unloading Order
If your job finishes at a storage unit or a customer's address, sketching a rough unloading order on paper before the hire begins can save confusion later. Note which items need to come off first at the destination, whether that is the boxes destined for one room or the furniture heading to a specific floor, and keep a written list of anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. You can also record the dimensions of large pieces and the approximate number of boxes, which helps when discussing the right van size with the team. If several destinations are involved, jot down the address and contact name for each stop. Having this information organised means you can describe the job accurately when you enquire and refer back to your notes on the day itself.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Should your move involve a full house clearance or a day of furniture collections, think about how long packing and loading might realistically take when you choose your hire dates. Write down the items you still need to pack, any materials you must gather beforehand, and whether helpers are available on the chosen day. If a collection point has set opening hours or a specific handover time, note that alongside the hire dates so the schedule stays workable. You might also list any items requiring special attention, such as appliances or mirrors, along with their measurements. Sharing these details when you request a van helps the team understand the scope of the job, and it leaves you with a clearer record of what needs to happen before the vehicle arrives.
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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.