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.
Writing down what the boxes contain
Start with a sheet of paper and one line for every box you plan to move. Label each by room and contents, such as kitchen crockery or bedroom books, and give it a number so nothing goes missing in the count. Note any cartons that are fragile, heavy or oddly shaped, and record roughly how many you expect in total. If some items are destined for storage rather than the new address, mark those separately, since the difference may shape how you organise the trip. Keep the list with your hire dates and access notes, and mention it when you enquire about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. The team can then discuss your questions with the details you have gathered.
Noting the order you want things delivered
If your journey involves more than one destination, spend a few minutes deciding which items belong where before the van arrives. Write a note of the destinations: which boxes and furniture go to the house, which to a storage unit, and whether anything is being handed to a friend or neighbour along the way. Record the address and a phone contact for each stop, and note any time limits that apply, such as a storage facility's opening hours. This is also the moment to ask yourself whether anything needs to reach one place urgently. Share your destinations and access arrangements with the team when you enquire, and ask any questions about the vehicle options so you can plan with the details settled rather than guessed.
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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.