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.
Writing Down What You Need to Move
The starting point for any van booking is a written inventory of the items involved. List each piece individually, from boxes and bags to furniture and appliances, and where you can, note the approximate dimensions of anything bulky such as wardrobes, sofas or tall shelving. Recording the length, width and height of the largest items lets the team judge which vehicle group to suggest. Next, set out your hire dates, including whether you need the van for a single morning, a full day or several days, and note the access arrangements at each end, such as parking restrictions or narrow approaches. If someone will receive the goods at the destination, keep their contact details handy. Any remaining questions, such as whether a particular van is available on your dates, can go straight onto the same list when you ask for a quote.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Some customers wonder whether to move everything at once or spread the job over a few shorter hires. That decision is yours to make, and a little preparation helps you compare the options. Count your items and sort them into groups: essentials needed immediately, things that can wait, and anything fragile that needs its own plan. Note the total number of boxes and large pieces so you can discuss realistic quantities with the team. If you decide on several trips, write down the dates you have in mind for each one and the address details for every collection and drop-off point, including a named contact at each. You might also ask how availability is confirmed across multiple bookings, or whether one vehicle group could cover each leg. Keeping these notes together makes the conversation far more straightforward.
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.