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.
Listing What Goes in Each Box
Before you request a van, write an inventory of the boxed belongings you intend to move. Note how many boxes there are, their approximate dimensions, and which room each one belongs to, since a room-by-room list is simpler to check off later than a single long tally. Record any fragile items separately, along with boxes that contain anything you will need first at the new address. If some items are unusual shapes, such as rolled rugs or flat-packed furniture, list these individually with their measurements. Once you have this list, you can share it with the team when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and they can advise on the vehicle that suits the job. Where you are still deciding between hire dates, note the days you are considering so the team can check what arrangements are possible.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
A useful exercise is to sketch out two versions of your plan and compare them side by side. In the first, note everything you would move in a single outing, including the full list of items and the access arrangements at each end. In the second, note how the same items might split across two or three shorter runs, recording what you would carry each time and roughly how long each run might take to organise. Think about whether you have helpers available on every date, and whether the person receiving the items expects one delivery or several. Write down any time limits, such as keys being collected at a set hour, and any parking or entry details you already know. Presenting both versions to the team lets them talk through the vehicle options, from a small van upwards, without guessing at your circumstances.
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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.