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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Enquire
Start by writing down what will actually travel in the van. Count the boxes, note any furniture pieces with their approximate dimensions, and list loose items such as lamps, tools or garden equipment. If some things might be left behind or sent separately, mark those clearly so your list reflects only what needs to move. Note the address you are collecting from and the address you are delivering to, along with the name and number of whoever receives the goods, particularly if a storage facility or a buyer is involved. Where an item is awkwardly shaped or unusually large, record its measurements rather than a guess. A written inventory of this kind gives the team a clear basis for suggesting which van type suits the job.
Allowing Realistic Time for Packing
Think about how the packing side of your plan will fit around the hire dates before you confirm them. If you are still sorting cupboards or dismantling furniture, consider whether the van is needed for one day or several, and whether evenings or a weekend would work. Note down when the property will be accessible, whether keys or codes are involved, and any deadline such as a completion date or a storage unit's opening hours. It can be worth recording who will be present to help and when they are available, since this affects how the days are arranged. Questions to raise include whether extending the hire is possible if packing overruns and how changes to the schedule are handled. Setting out these timings early keeps the plan workable.
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.