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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Job
Who will be there on the day, and at what time? If friends, family or colleagues are helping with a move or a delivery, it is worth confirming their availability before you finalise the hire dates. Draw up a simple list of names, phone numbers and the hours each person can commit, then share it with everyone involved. Some helpers may only be free in the morning, while others could arrive later, so noting the times helps you plan the day realistically. Decide who your main point of contact is if arrangements change, and make sure helpers know where to meet and what to bring with them. When you request a quote, you can also ask the team whether a crew van might suit a job where several helpers are travelling together in the van.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Before settling on a vehicle, measure the items you intend to carry and note the figures down. For furniture, record the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, plus anything awkward such as a mattress or a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled. It is also worth asking the destination contact about entrance widths, door heights, stairwells and lift access if items are going indoors, since they will know the building better than anyone. Compare your measurements with the vehicle sizes the team quotes and ask whether anything you have listed seems likely to cause difficulty. If some pieces could be taken apart or transported separately, note that as an option. Keeping a written record of dimensions means you can answer questions quickly when confirming the booking.
Explore other van hire areas
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.