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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who else needs to be there? If friends, family or colleagues are helping with your move or collection, plan their availability before the hire date arrives. Write down each person's name, phone number and the hours they can commit, so you can see at a glance whether the day is covered or whether a second pair of hands would be useful. Decide where everyone should meet and at what time, and share those details in advance rather than on the morning itself. It is also worth noting who holds a key to the property being emptied or filled, and who will be the point of contact if anyone is delayed. If helpers are only free for part of the day, sequence the tasks around their windows and record what each person has agreed to do.
Planning the Order of Unloading
Before the van arrives at its destination, sketch the sequence you would like the unloading to follow. List the items that need to reach particular rooms first, such as beds that allow the household to sleep that night, and note where boxes should be stacked while the van is emptied. Recording which boxes belong to which room on a simple list, or labelling them as you pack, saves confusion later. Think about who will be at the destination to receive items, collect their contact details, and confirm the access arrangements, including gate codes or parking, when you speak to them. If some things are destined for storage rather than a house, note which items go where so nothing is mixed up on arrival.
Explore other van hire areas
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.