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.
Planning the order of your load on paper
If your move involves items destined for different places, sketching a simple order before the day can clarify what you actually need. Write each item on the list with its destination noted beside it, so you can see at a glance what belongs in the new house, what goes to storage and what is being collected for someone else. Record the dimensions of the largest pieces and the quantity of boxes for each destination. This written plan also helps you brief anyone helping on the day, since they will know which items to expect at each stop. If some destinations have restricted hours or need a named contact on arrival, note those details too, and keep any questions about site access for the contacts at those sites themselves.
Coordinating helpers for the day
Helpers are only useful if everyone knows when and where they are needed, so a short rota is worth preparing. Note who has offered, their availability windows, and a phone number for each, along with who holds keys to the properties involved. If somebody is only free for part of the day, record that so you can match their hours to the busiest stretch. You might also note who will be your point of contact if plans shift on the morning itself, and share the hire dates with the group once confirmed. Where a helper is bringing equipment of their own, such as trolleys or blankets, add that to the list. These records keep communication simple and give you clear answers when the team asks about access arrangements.
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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.