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.
Who is helping on the day?
How many helpers will actually turn up, and when? Before you request a van, list everyone who has agreed to assist, note their arrival windows, and mention the headcount when you ask for a quote, since seat numbers vary between vehicle types and the team can talk through whether a crew van suits your party. Helpers who travel separately might arrive late or leave early, so record each person's timing next to your own schedule for collection and return. If someone is only available for part of the day, that affects how you arrange the plan around their hours. Keep phone numbers for every helper in one message so nothing depends on memory on the day itself.
Planning the order of the day
Think about the sequence of stops before the hire date arrives. If a collection and a delivery are both involved, note which address comes first and who will meet you at each one, including a named contact and their number. Where items are going into storage, record unit numbers and opening arrangements supplied by the facility. A written order of addresses, with rough timings and what moves at each stop, gives you something to check against while the day unfolds. Ask the team about the dropside or Luton options if your list includes large furniture, and keep the item dimensions with your notes so you can refer to them when confirming the booking.
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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.