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.
Note Down Your Load and Dates
Start with a written list of everything you plan to carry, from boxed belongings to furniture, tools or stock for a delivery round. For each item, record its approximate dimensions and, if you know them, any awkward shapes such as long shelves or rolled carpets. Add the hire dates, including the time you expect to start and finish, plus the access arrangements at each end, whether that is a driveway, a shared yard or a kerbside collection point. If someone will meet you to hand over or receive goods, note their name and phone number. Having these details in one place means you can answer the team's questions quickly and settle on a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Is a single run realistic, or would splitting the job across two visits suit your schedule better? Sketch both options before you enquire. For one trip, list every item that must travel together and note whether any of them have fixed collection windows, such as a shop pickup or a storage unit closing time. For several trips, think about which belongings could wait a day or travel separately, and how that fits your hire dates. You might also record who is available to help on each day and where keys or paperwork will be kept between runs. These notes are simply for your own planning; sharing the option you prefer, along with your item list, lets the team respond with a properly matched vehicle.
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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.