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.
Recording Your Boxes and Belongings
Start by writing down every box and item you intend to move, grouped by the room it came from. Number the boxes and note roughly what each contains, which helps you decide priority at the other end. Measure the awkward pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas or shelving, and record their dimensions alongside the total number of boxes. Add the hire dates you are considering and the access arrangements at both addresses, including any restrictions on when you can enter. If some belongings are going to storage rather than a new home, note that separately with the storage unit number and the contact details there. This record gives the team a clear picture when matching your job to a van.
Coordinating Helpers Across the Move
If friends or family are lending a hand, agree their availability before you finalise the hire dates, and write down who has committed to which day. Collect a mobile number for each helper and share your planned schedule with them, including the start time and both addresses. Decide in advance who will be present at each end and who holds keys or access codes, and record this on the same sheet. Ask anyone with restricted availability whether they could cover an alternative date, in case the move slips. When you request a quote, mention how many people will be involved and the hours you expect the job to take, since this may affect how many days of hire you ask for.
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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.