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.
Note Down Everything You Plan to Move
Begin with a written inventory of every item going on the van. List furniture piece by piece, including sofas, wardrobes, beds and tables, and note the approximate length, width and height of each one. Count boxes as you pack them and jot down roughly how full each is. Record awkward items separately: a washing machine, a mirror, a bicycle or anything long and narrow. If belongings are destined for a storage unit, add the unit number and site contact details to the same list. This record does two jobs: it helps you ask the team whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches the load, and it gives you a reference point on the day. Send the full inventory with your hire dates and access arrangements when you request a quote.
Prepare Before the Van Arrives
How ready will your things be when the hire period starts? Think through a timeline working backwards from the collection or delivery date. Decide when each room will be packed, who is responsible for it and what still needs to be bought, such as tape or padding. If items are coming from different addresses, note each pickup point and a contact name and number there, so nobody is unreachable on the day. Where a delivery is going to a business, record the receiving person's details and any reference they expect. Ask the team in advance about anything you are unsure of, from access arrangements to whether the vehicle you discussed remains suitable if your list grows. Questions raised early tend to have straightforward answers.
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.