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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Choosing Between One Trip and Several
You may be deciding whether to hire a Luton for a single run or take a smaller van back and forth twice. To make that decision, list everything you need to move and estimate how much space it occupies, counting boxes, furniture and any loose items. Note the distance between the two addresses, the hours available on the day and whether anyone can help at either end. If the dates are flexible, you could also consider spreading the job across two mornings. Once you have this written down, share it with the team and ask which vehicle option they would suggest for the load as described. They can talk you through the available choices, while you retain the final say on how the day is organised.
Working Out What Goes Where
If your van is headed to a storage unit and a new flat on the same afternoon, sketch a simple plan before the hire begins. Divide your item list into two columns, one for each destination, and mark anything that might go either way so you can decide later. Note who will receive items at each address, with a phone number, and agree rough time windows with them in advance. Keep a written record of which items belong at each destination so nothing is overlooked during the run. Hold the plan with your inventory so it is easy to refer to throughout the day. For questions about access at the storage site or the flat, contact the people responsible for those locations.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.