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.
Moving Boxed Belongings Smoothly
Begin by writing down how many boxes you expect to move, along with an estimate of their sizes and anything unusually shaped such as lamps, bikes or mirrors. A simple numbered list, grouped by room, gives you a record to check against when the job is done. Note which items are fragile and which are heading to storage rather than a new address, since that may affect how you split the work across your dates. If a friend is receiving furniture on your behalf, record their contact number and the agreed arrival window. Questions worth asking in your quote request include whether your preferred dates remain open and which van types are currently available for the volume you have described.
Recording Details Before Unloading
Before you set off, it is worth listing each drop-off point you plan to visit, together with the address, phone number and any preferred arrival windows you have agreed. Note which boxes are bound for storage and which are heading to a new address if the run is split, since that may shape how you plan your stops across the hire dates. If access at a destination is unclear, the person you are delivering to is the right contact to confirm gates, parking or opening hours. Keep your own copy of the list so nothing gets overlooked between stops, and share the timings with anyone waiting so they know when to expect you.
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.