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.
Building a Written Load Inventory
Start with a list of everything going onto the van, written down rather than held in your head. For each item, record what it is, roughly how large it is and whether it comes apart, since a wardrobe that dismantles or a sofa with removable legs changes the picture considerably. Note fragile pieces separately and any boxes still to be packed, with an honest count of how many you expect. If furniture is being collected from a shop or a private seller, add the seller's reference or receipt number to the list. Keep the tally with you when asking for a quote, because the team can only suggest a suitable vehicle from what you tell them. An inventory that changes during packing is worth redating, so the final version reflects reality.
Agreeing a Sequence for Each Stop
Before the hire date arrives, sketch the order in which places will be visited, noting which items belong at each address. If the trip involves a storage unit, a new home and a relative's garage, write the destination beside every inventory line so nothing ends up at the wrong address. Record opening hours for any facility involved and a phone number for each contact person, plus a second number where possible. Where a seller or site manager controls access, ask them directly about parking, gate codes or time limits rather than assuming. Decide whether any stop is likely to overrun and build that into the day. A written sequence also helps anyone assisting you understand where each item is headed.
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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.