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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Write Down the Details First
Before requesting a quote, it helps to note the basics on paper. Start with your preferred hire dates, including whether you might need the van for part of a day or over a weekend. Then list every item you plan to carry, with dimensions where you can take them: the length of a sofa, the height of a wardrobe, the number of boxes and any awkward pieces such as ladders or garden tools. If the load will be collected from someone else, record that person's name and phone number so the team knows who to expect. Finally, note the access arrangements at each end, such as parking restrictions or narrow lanes, and add any questions you still have about vehicle options.
One Trip or Several to Plan
It is worth considering whether you intend to complete the job in a single run or spread it across several. If everything must move on one day, say so when you enquire, because that may affect which vehicle you ask about. Alternatively, if you can split the work, note which items are urgent and which can wait a week, and mention this to the team. A phased approach might suit a storage run or a staged house move. You could also list the addresses in the order you plan to visit them, which keeps the schedule clear in your own notes. Any questions about whether a particular van suits your list are best raised before you confirm the booking.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.