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.
Recording What Goes Where
If you are moving a mix of furniture and boxes, a written list of each item, with rough dimensions and the room it belongs to, can be useful when discussing the job. Rather than deciding on paper how the load will sit, simply note the tallest and longest pieces separately so they can be flagged when you enquire. Recording which items are heading to storage and which to the new address also keeps the conversation clear, particularly if a collection involves more than one drop-off point. If a friend is lending you a sofa or you are collecting a purchase from a shop, note the seller's contact details and any collection reference. The team can then talk through whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits what you have listed, subject to availability.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
Should the hire cover a weekend move, consider how much packing remains before the van arrives. Estimating the number of boxes still to fill, and noting items such as wardrobes or shelving that will need emptying, gives you a realistic picture of the hours involved. If you plan to dismantle furniture, write down which pieces and whether you have kept the fittings. It can help to note a contact number for anyone helping you, along with the times they are free, so the day can be arranged around shared availability. When you tell the team the hire dates, you can also mention how much of the packing you expect to finish beforehand, which keeps the booking conversation grounded in your actual schedule.
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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.