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.
One Trip or Several
The first decision many hirers face is whether to move everything in a single outing or split the job across two or three. To decide, list each item or box with its dimensions and note which pieces have fixed collection or delivery times. If some goods can wait a week, a smaller van used twice may suit your diary, whereas a same-day deadline may push you toward one larger vehicle. Record the address and contact number at every stop, including anyone who must be present to receive goods, and note any access details you have been given, such as a loading bay booked for a set hour. Sketch a rough sequence of stops with estimated dwell time at each. You can then ask the team whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches your combined plan, and revise if their answer prompts a rethink.
Moving Boxed Belongings
For a house move built around boxed possessions, the preparation is largely about the inventory. Count the boxes by size, noting small, medium and large separately, and record any awkward shapes such as rolled posters, lampshades or flat-pack panels that resist neat categories. Write down the hire dates, including whether an evening start or a weekend slot is needed, and where the boxes begin and end their journey. Keep the recipient's details, perhaps the new address key holder or a storage facility contact, alongside your list. Where a box contains fragile items, a simple mark on your inventory helps you discuss it when asking for a quote. Leave open any question about whether the total volume suggests a particular vehicle, since the team can advise once they see your figures.
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.