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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Planning the Order You Work In
If your day involves several stops, thinking through the running order in advance can shape how you book. Write down each address, the items destined for it, and a contact name and number for whoever is receiving them. Ask yourself whether a furniture collection needs to happen before a storage drop, or whether a trade job in the morning sets the timing for everything that follows. Noting the sequence, along with any time windows a recipient has given you, gives the team a clearer picture of the hire dates and access arrangements to confirm. Where a delivery window is flexible, say so; where it is fixed, flag it early so it can be factored into the booking conversation before anything is agreed.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things you can prepare before any van job. List every item you expect to carry, from single pieces of furniture to boxed goods, and add approximate dimensions and quantities against each line. Note anything fragile, anything dismantled, and anything with awkward proportions that might affect which vehicle suits the job. If the load is split between addresses, mark which items belong where. This record not only helps the team match the work to the right van type, it also gives you a reference point when confirming access arrangements and hire dates. Where an item's size is uncertain, a quick tape measure before you enquire can settle the question and keep the quote process straightforward.
Explore other van hire areas
Things to check 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.