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.
Who Is Helping on the Day?
A practical starting point is to decide who will be there. If friends or family have offered to help with a move, confirm their availability for the specific dates before you book anything, and note how many people you can rely on. For a furniture collection, check whether the seller can assist at their end or whether you are expected to bring your own helpers. Write down each helper's name and contact number so you can reach them if timings shift. If trade work is involved, note which colleagues or staff will be using the van. This information helps when discussing the job with the team, who will match it to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Sort Your Boxes and Belongings
If the hire is for moving boxed belongings, spend time beforehand getting the list right. Count how many boxes you have, group them by size, and note anything that does not fit a standard box, such as lamps, pictures or garden tools. Record the rough dimensions of larger items and whether anything needs particular care. Decide what is travelling with you and what might be left behind or taken to storage, then keep the list somewhere easy to find. Ask the team about your hire dates, whether an extra day would be useful for packing, and what the collection or delivery options are. Questions about access at the destination belong with whoever manages that property.
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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.