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.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
The most useful thing to write down first is a schedule for the day itself. Note the date of your hire, the time you need the van ready, and a rough order for the hours before you set off, such as dismantling furniture, taping boxes or waiting for a storage unit to open. List the items you expect to pack, with approximate dimensions for the larger ones, and mark anything that might overrun, like a wardrobe that refuses to come apart or a delivery arriving late. If a recipient at the other end has a time window, record their contact details and the agreed slot. When you request a quote, you can ask the team whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits your list, and confirm the hire period covers everything you have planned.
Coordinating Helpers
Helpers need the same information you do, so prepare a short brief for each person. Write down who is coming, what time they should arrive and what they need to bring, whether that is tools for dismantling or keys for the storage facility. Note each helper's contact number in case anyone is delayed, and record which items are theirs to handle if the job involves several households or a business delivery with goods going to different recipients. If someone is meeting the van at the destination rather than at the start, their details belong on the list too, along with the expected arrival window you have agreed. You might also ask the team to confirm the hire dates and collection arrangements so everyone involved knows when the day begins and ends.
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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.