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.
Listing Your Load Before You Enquire
A written inventory is the natural first step when a van is on your shopping list for moving day. Begin by noting every category of item you expect to transport: boxed belongings, furniture pieces, appliances, tools or materials for a trade job, or goods bound for a customer. Beside each entry, record an approximate quantity and, for anything bulky, its measured length, width and height. If furniture can be dismantled, note which pieces come apart and how their dimensions change once separated. Sketching a rough order for the day, including collection and drop-off addresses plus any access details you already know, gives the hire team useful context. This list also becomes a handy reference when you come to confirm the hire dates and discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches your job.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends, family members or colleagues have offered to assist, plan their involvement before the van is booked. Write down who is available on which dates, what time each person can start, and whether their availability covers the whole day or only a few hours. Consider how helpers will travel: will they follow in their own cars, or does the schedule need to account for them arriving at the collection address separately? Note a named contact at the delivery end, such as a family member or storage facility receptionist, along with a phone number, so arrangements can be confirmed if timings shift. Listing these details early highlights any open questions, such as whether a crew van with additional seating is worth requesting, that you can raise when discussing vehicle options with the team.
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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.