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.
Setting aside time for packing and loading
Write down your hire dates first, then work backwards to build a realistic schedule around them. Note when packing can start, when the van is due, and when items must reach their destination, marking each as a fixed point or a flexible one. If the move involves several rooms, list which ones you can pack early and which must stay in use until the last day. Record the hours when people helping you are free, and note the contact details of anyone at the receiving end, such as a storage facility or a customer, so you can agree a window with them directly. Build in spare time between stages in case a task takes longer than expected. Sharing this timeline with the team when you ask for a quote helps them confirm the van option and hire length that suit the plan.
Weighing one trip against several
Deciding between a single larger run and multiple smaller ones is worth doing on paper before you book. List every item or batch you need to move, then group them by destination and by urgency, since a job with one delivery address and no deadline looks very different from one with three addresses and set arrival times. Note whether any items could wait a week, and which must go on the first run. If you are leaning towards several trips, record the dates you have in mind for each, along with who will be present at each end and their contact numbers. These notes give the team something concrete when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and they can help you talk through which arrangement matches the job and the dates available.
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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.