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 Your Hire Day
Will anyone be assisting you on the day? That question is worth settling early, because a clear list of helpers shapes the rest of your notes. Write down each person's name, mobile number and the hours they can spare, then mark who is responsible for keys, paperwork and meeting the delivery. Confirm with every helper which address they should travel to and what time you expect them, and record a backup contact in case someone drops out. If helpers are bringing their own equipment or handling specific items, note which items belong to whom. Ask the hire team whether the vehicle can be collected by one named person while others arrive separately, and whether the return can be handled the same way. Keeping these details in one message makes the day simpler to coordinate.
Recording What Travels in the Van
Rather than planning the order items go into the vehicle, focus on building a complete written inventory beforehand. List each piece you intend to carry, with measured length, width and height for anything large such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches, and count the smaller boxes so nothing is forgotten. Note which items belong to other people and need a named recipient at the far end, together with a phone number for them. If some goods are going to storage and others to a house, mark the two groups clearly on your list. When you contact the team, share the inventory and ask which van size they would suggest for those dimensions, whether a Luton or dropside suits the job, and whether anything on your list raises questions you have not yet answered.
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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.