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.
Writing Down Your Load and Dates
Open a note on your phone or a piece of paper and record everything the van needs to carry: each item, its approximate dimensions, and how many of each there are. A sofa, a stack of boxes and a washing machine all tell the team far more than a rough description. Alongside the load list, write the hire dates, any flexibility you have on start or finish times, and the access arrangements at each end, including whether there are steps, gates or parking constraints to mention. If the job involves collecting goods from a third party, note their contact number and opening hours. Questions worth asking at quote stage include which van sizes are available and whether the hire period covers collection and return windows you have in mind.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
If packing is part of your plan, think about the schedule you want to keep rather than the mechanics of the job. Note how long you expect packing to take at the origin address and whether you need the van for the whole of that window or only part of it. Record any deadlines, such as a storage unit that must be emptied by a certain date or a furniture collection booked for a fixed afternoon. It can help to ask whether an earlier start or a later return is possible when you request a quote, in case your plans shift. You might also note whether a second person will be present to help, purely as information for your own timing. The open question is how your preferred dates align with availability, which the team confirms before anything is booked.
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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.