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.
Setting Aside Realistic Time for Packing
Note down a realistic timeline for the whole job, starting from the moment packing begins rather than the moment the van arrives. Write the date you plan to start boxing items, the date the van is needed, and any deadline at the far end, such as a handover or a storage unit closing time. If packing tends to run over, build a buffer day into your notes rather than assuming everything finishes on schedule. Record which rooms or jobs still need attention and mark anything dependent on another person, such as a collection arranged with a seller. When you request a quote, share this timeline and ask whether the hire dates you have chosen leave a sensible margin, or whether an extra day would be worth considering.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Sketch both possibilities on paper before deciding: a single larger outing or several smaller ones spread across the week. For each option, list the items involved, the days you would need the van, and the access arrangements at every stop. Note any constraints that push you one way or the other, such as a collection only available on a certain afternoon or a storage facility with limited opening hours. If you choose multiple trips, record the dates and what travels on each; if you lean towards one, note the full inventory it would involve. Neither option needs deciding alone. Send both sketches with your enquiry and ask which van groups and hire periods the team can support for each version of the plan.
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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.