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.
One trip or several: weighing it up
A decision many customers face is whether to shift everything in a single run or split the work across several. To compare the two, list what needs to move and note which items belong to which stage of the job, then think about whether the collection and drop-off points have different opening times or access arrangements that affect when each part can happen. If some pieces can wait a week, a later second run might suit, whereas items needed the same day point towards keeping everything together. Write down the hire dates each option would require, as the team will need those to quote. Asking whether a single longer hire and two shorter hires are priced differently is a fair question to include when you get in touch.
Notes for moving hobby equipment
Hobby gear often comes in odd shapes, so a written inventory helps before you hire. Record each item, from canoes and bicycles to model railways or band equipment, along with its length, width and height, and note anything that comes apart into smaller pieces. Count the bags and boxes that go alongside, since small items add up in ways people forget. If any piece needs to stay upright or must not be tilted, put that on the list too, along with a contact name and number at the receiving end. When you ask about a van, share the inventory and ask which vehicle would suit the list, and whether any item's dimensions raise questions worth discussing before the hire is confirmed.
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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.