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.
Sorting Out What Goes Where and When
Suppose your move date is still flexible and you have not yet decided which items travel on the van. Before requesting a quote, it can help to draft a simple list of everything you plan to move, noting approximate dimensions for the larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches. Record the hire dates you have in mind, including whether you might need the vehicle for an extra morning. If items are going to more than one address, write down each recipient's name and contact number so the team can discuss the arrangements with you. You might also note any access details, such as parking restrictions at either end, so nothing important is left out of your enquiry.
Weighing Up One Trip Against Several
If you are deciding whether to move everything in a single day or spread the work across two, the answer often comes down to information rather than guesswork. Count the boxes, bags and furniture items on your list, then group them by destination. Note which pieces have awkward dimensions and which could wait until a later date if needed. When you contact the team, you can ask which vehicle options suit your list, whether a Luton or a smaller van fits your dates, and what the differences in hire periods might involve. Keeping a written record of what still needs collecting, and who is expecting each delivery, gives you something concrete to refer back to when plans shift.
Explore other van hire areas
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.