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.
Coordinating Helpers for Your Hire Day
Who is going to be there on the day, and do they know the plan? If friends or colleagues are helping with a move or a collection, it pays to write down who is available, when they can arrive, and how they can be contacted on the day. Share the hire dates with everyone early, and confirm who will meet the vehicle and who holds the keys if collection is involved. If somebody might drop out or arrive late, note a backup contact. When you enquire, you can mention how many people the job involves, since this may influence whether a crew van suits your needs. Keep each helper's phone number to hand, and agree in advance where the group will gather and who speaks with the hire team if plans shift.
Recording Your Boxed Belongings Clearly
Before asking for a quote, spend some time listing what you actually intend to move. A room-by-room inventory works well: note the number of boxes per room, their approximate dimensions, and any items that are boxed versus loose. Record fragile pieces separately and flag anything unusually shaped, such as lamps or rolled rugs. If some belongings are going to storage rather than a new address, list the two sets apart, since this may shape the itinerary you describe to the team. Photographing the pile can also help you recall quantities later. When you contact the hire team, share the inventory, the access arrangements at each end, and your dates, then ask which van option they would match to that list where available.
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.