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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
The single most useful thing you can prepare is a complete list of everything going into the van. Work through your house, garage or workshop room by room and write down each item, from large furniture to the box of cables in the drawer. Note approximate dimensions for the biggest pieces, the total number of boxes, and anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. If items are destined for different addresses, mark each entry with its destination and a named contact there. Number the list and keep a copy on your phone so it can be updated as plans develop. When you contact the team, this inventory answers most of their questions at once, and it gives you a reliable record to check against on the day, so you can see at a glance whether anything has been left behind or whether a last-minute addition changes the van you need for the dates you have booked.
Organising a Household Move
List the key dates first: the day your current home becomes unavailable, the day you gain access to the new one, and any overlap between them. Record the addresses, the contact details for both estate agents or landlords, and any access arrangements such as keys collected from an office. Note which rooms need emptying and which items are staying behind, then share that summary with the team when you request a quote. If you plan to move in stages over several trips, sketch which items travel on which day. Decide who will be present at each address and collect their numbers. Ask yourself whether anything needs dismantling before the van arrives, and note the tools required. Having these details written down means you can answer questions quickly during the booking conversation, and it gives you a reference point if timings shift closer to the move.
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.