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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Enquire
The starting point is a written inventory of everything going into boxes. Note how many boxes you expect, their approximate dimensions and any that are unusually shaped or fragile, since this record helps you discuss the job clearly when you call. Alongside the boxes themselves, list loose items that will not fit inside them, such as lamps, vacuum cleaners or rolled rugs, and mark anything that will be dismantled before the move. Decide which items travel with you personally rather than in the van, and keep that list separate. If some belongings are going to a different address from the rest, note the destination for each group. When you request a quote, you can share the inventory, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the load you have described.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends, family or colleagues are assisting, their availability shapes the whole schedule. Write down who has confirmed, who is tentative and what times each person can commit to, then agree a meeting point and a way to contact everyone on the day, whether that is a group message or individual calls. It is worth checking whether helpers have any time limits, such as needing to leave early or arriving late, so you can sequence the day around them. Decide in advance who holds keys to the properties involved and who is responsible for any paperwork at each end. Where helpers are providing their own vehicles for part of the run, note that too. When you speak to the team, you can mention how many people are involved and ask any questions about the access arrangements, hire dates and vehicle matching before you finalise.
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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.