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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
A move built around boxed belongings starts with knowing exactly how many boxes you have and what sits inside them. Write down a count by room, then note the dimensions of the largest boxes and any that are unusually heavy or fragile. Think about the non-boxed items too: mattresses, vacuum cleaners, ironing boards and the awkward pieces that resist tidy categorising. Estimate how many trips you expect to make between addresses, and record both the collection and destination addresses along with contact names and numbers at each end. If access involves gates, shared drives or restricted parking, that belongs on the list as well. When you contact the team, present this information together with your hire dates, and ask any questions you have about matching the load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Coordinating Helpers
If friends or family are assisting on the day, a little coordination beforehand keeps everyone working from the same page. Start with names and mobile numbers, then note when each helper is available, since someone might only be free in the morning while another can stay all day. Record who has agreed to bring what, whether that is a trolley, spare blankets or a flask of tea, and who is happy to drive if more than one vehicle is involved. Share the addresses and access notes with every helper, including the contact numbers at each end, and confirm the planned start time. Ask the team about the vehicle options for your dates, and mention the helper count when you do, since a crew van might be worth discussing alongside the load itself. Questions about delivery and collection arrangements can be raised at the same time.
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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.