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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
What to Write Down Before Booking
Start by making a simple written list of everything you plan to move, noting the longest, widest and tallest items along with an approximate count of boxes, bags and loose pieces. Record your preferred hire dates, including a spare day either side in case plans shift, and note the addresses involved together with any access details you already know, such as parking restrictions or gate widths at each end. If furniture can be dismantled, jot down which pieces come apart and where the fixings will be kept. Having this information ready means you can answer the team's questions quickly and receive a more accurate match between your load and the van types available, and it gives you a reference point if anything changes.
Planning a Move with Boxed Belongings
If your move is built around boxed belongings, spend a little time sketching the sequence before hire dates are fixed. Decide which rooms you will pack first and which boxes need to stay accessible until the last moment, then label each one with its destination room and a short contents note. Write an inventory as you go, including a rough count per room, so you can check nothing is missing afterwards. Think about where boxed items are heading, whether that is a new address, a storage unit or a family member's garage, and note the recipient's contact details if someone will meet you there. Questions worth asking when you request a quote include whether your dates are flexible and whether the van size you have in mind suits the number of boxes you expect.
Explore other van hire areas
Things to check 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.