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.
Start With the Details Worth Writing Down
Before requesting a quote, it helps to note a few basics on paper. Write down the hire dates, including whether you might need the van for an extra morning or afternoon. List everything you plan to carry, from boxes and bags to individual pieces of furniture, and roughly how many of each. If you can measure the larger items, record their length, width and height, since these figures often decide which van size makes sense. Note the collection and drop-off addresses, plus any access details such as parking restrictions or narrow entries. Finally, keep a contact number for anyone receiving goods at the far end, so the team can reach them if plans shift. With these details recorded, your enquiry can be answered more precisely, and follow-up questions become straightforward to resolve.
Setting Aside Time for Packing and Hobby Gear
If your hire involves packing up belongings or moving hobby equipment, consider building some slack into your schedule. Work out how long you expect packing to take, then decide whether an earlier start or a longer hire period might suit. Hobby gear often comes with extras that are easy to overlook: model railway boards, cycling accessories, camping kit or musical instrument cases. Note each item's dimensions and any awkward shapes, and think about whether anything needs collecting from a separate address. It can also be worth listing the small loose pieces, such as tools, cables or stands, so nothing gets left behind on the day. If you are unsure whether your list suits one van size or another, include it with your enquiry. The team can then talk through the options and confirm which vehicles are available for your chosen dates.
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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.