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.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
One of the first decisions to settle is whether the job will be a single run or a series of them. A one-trip plan might suit a full house move with a set list of furniture, while several shorter runs could fit a phased clearance or a job where items are heading to different destinations. Write down what each potential trip would involve: the items, the addresses, and whether any stop has its own access constraints or time limits. If you are still undecided, note both versions and the questions each raises, such as whether a larger vehicle covers the whole list or whether splitting the load changes the hire dates. Bringing this comparison to the team lets them talk through the vehicle options with the full picture in view.
Organising a Household Move
For a domestic move, the practical starting point is a room-by-room inventory. List the furniture and boxes in each space, flagging anything oversized and noting dimensions for the pieces you are least sure about, such as a corner sofa or a tall bookcase. Record the destination address alongside a contact name and number there, in case arrival arrangements need confirming on the day. If some items are going to storage rather than the new home, keep those on a separate list with the facility's details. Mark anything still undecided, such as furniture you may sell before moving, so the inventory can be updated rather than rewritten. When you ask for a quote, you can share the list and ask which van options suit the job as it currently stands.
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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.