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.
Coordinating Helpers for Moving Day
Who's helping on the day, and when are they actually free? If friends or family have offered, pin down their availability before you fix the hire dates. Note each helper's arrival time, contact number and how long they can stay, then build your schedule around the hours you can rely on. Share the addresses involved, the access arrangements you already know, and the list of items so everyone understands the scale of the job. If someone can only come for part of the day, record which window they cover. Decide in advance who keeps the keys to the old and new properties, and who the van contact should be if plans change. A simple shared note with all of this keeps every helper working from the same page.
Planning Where Everything Belongs
Thinking ahead to the other end of the journey can save confusion later. Write down where each piece of furniture belongs at the destination, and keep a list of which boxes go to which room. If items are going to more than one address, group them on the list by destination and note who will receive each batch, including a contact number for anyone meeting you there. Note any items that need reassembling so the parts stay identifiable, and confirm the access window with whoever holds the keys at the new property. Share the finished plan with your helpers before the day, and raise any questions about access or timing with the team when you confirm the booking details.
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.