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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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
Begin with the times you intend to write down: the date the van is needed, the hour collection could begin and the point by which everything must be at its destination. Working backwards from those, note how many hours the packing itself might take, whether that is an evening before a house move or a morning spent wrapping furniture. Record who will be present at each end and whether any keys, codes or permits have to be arranged in advance. If a lift or shared entrance is involved at either address, the contact details for the person managing it belong on the same list. Building this timetable early leaves room to adjust the hire window if the packing turns out to be a bigger job than first thought.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Enquire
A written inventory of what is going into boxes turns a vague request into a clear one. Group items by room or by fragility, then count the boxes in each group and note roughly how full each will be. Alongside the boxes, list the loose items that will not fit inside, such as vacuum cleaners, lamps or rolled rugs, and measure the awkward ones, including any long mirrors or picture frames. If furniture is travelling flat-packed, write down the panel dimensions while they are still accessible. When you contact the team, this list lets you ask directly which van type suits the job and whether the dates you have in mind are open, and any gaps in the inventory show where more measuring is needed.
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Things to check 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.