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 what needs to travel
If a house move, a storage run or a trade job is on the cards, begin by putting your load onto paper before anything else. Jot down each box, tool, appliance or piece of furniture you expect to carry, and measure the largest items for length, width and height so nothing is left vague. Note which pieces come apart and which must stay in one piece, since that detail often changes the conversation. If your trip involves several stops, record the running order of addresses together with a named contact and phone number for every collection point and drop-off. That inventory becomes the reference you read from or send across when requesting a quote, giving the team something definite to match against the van range.
Sketching your timeline and questions
Before confirming dates, sketch how the hours of your hire might divide across the day. Write down your intended start time, a realistic estimate for packing at each address, and any appointment windows or set opening hours at collection points that constrain the schedule. Note who will be present at each end and how to reach them, should a key holder run late or be unreachable. Keep a short list of your own unanswered questions too: whether the van covers the full period you have in mind, and which parts of the plan still depend on someone else. Holding these notes next to your item list means any follow-up about the booking begins from a clear record rather than guesswork.
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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.