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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before the Move
What should you record about items already boxed? For each box, note a short description of the contents, the room it belongs to and the name of the person it belongs to if the load is shared. Numbering the boxes and keeping a matching written list lets you tick them off as they leave, and again at the other end. Where a box holds fragile items, mark that on both the box and the list, and note the approximate dimensions of the largest boxes so the figures can be shared when discussing the van. If some boxes are destined for storage rather than the new address, keep them on a separate list with the storage details noted. Any box still being packed can be marked as pending, which shows at a glance how much remains before the hire date, and the list can be adjusted as the final count settles.
Allowing Realistic Time for Packing and Loading
How much of the day should the packing take? Rather than estimating in general terms, note the hours available on the hire date and work backwards from the time the van is due back. Record the rooms still to pack, the items that will be wrapped rather than boxed and any dismantling that furniture may need, since each of these takes its own slice of time. If helpers have offered to come, write down their names and the times they gave, so the schedule reflects who is actually there. Note any fixed appointments during the day, such as a key collection, and the phone numbers of anyone who needs a call before the van arrives. Where the packing might overrun, decide in advance which items could stay behind for a later trip, and mark them as optional on the list.
Explore other van hire areas
Last checks 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.