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.
Getting a household move organised
How much of the household is actually moving this time? Start by walking through each room and listing what's coming, what's staying and what's being sold or donated. Note the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas and white goods, with rough dimensions, and flag anything that dismantles. Set the moving date early, and if you're between homes, decide whether items need to go into storage on the way. Record contact details for anyone receiving furniture at the far end, along with any access questions you need to put to them about parking or opening times. When you enquire, send the list and dates together so the team can suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and answer questions about the hire length.
One trip or several runs
Should everything go in a single journey or spread across two? That depends on what you're carrying and how much time you have, so it's worth sketching both options. For one trip, list every item and its rough size to see whether the combined load points towards a larger van. For several trips, note the hours available each day, the distance between addresses and whether anyone can help at either end. Each option raises open questions: a one-off move needs a firm date and a full inventory, while repeated runs need reliable access at both properties. Put your preferred option, the dates and the item list in your quote request, and ask the team which van size and hire period they'd suggest for each version.
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.