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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who is actually going to be there on hire day? Settling that early gives you a list to work from. Write down each helper's name, phone number and the hours they can commit, then note whether any of them will meet you at the property, the storage unit or another address entirely. If someone might drop out, decide in advance who could step in and how you would tell the rest of the group. Record a single point of contact for messages on the day, and agree when everyone should confirm their attendance. Keep the list with your item notes and access arrangements so the hire team sees the whole picture, and raise any open questions about van choice or dates when you ask for a quote.
Moving Boxed Belongings
A collection of boxes is easier to plan once every one is accounted for on paper. Count the boxes room by room, note their approximate dimensions, and mark any that hold fragile or unusually shaped contents so they stand out on the list. Consider whether some boxes could be opened and repacked into fewer, and record the destination address plus a named recipient and phone number for each drop-off. If items are going into storage, ask the facility about their intake hours and paperwork, and write the answers down. Think about the order in which addresses will be visited and whether any recipient has a preferred time window. When you contact the team, share the item list, access arrangements and hire dates, and ask anything about matching the job to a van that is still unclear.
Explore other van hire areas
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.