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.
Writing Down What You Plan to Move
Start with a written inventory of everything that needs transporting. Rather than guessing, list each boxed item, piece of furniture or tool set, and where possible record approximate dimensions and any awkward shapes, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or a long workbench. Note which boxes belong to which room or job, since that detail helps when you brief the team about the load. You should also capture the hire dates you have in mind, any flexibility around them, and the access arrangements at both ends, including whether you will be collecting from the depot or need the van brought to you. If some items are still undecided, mark them clearly so the team can talk you through the options rather than assume a fixed list.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Some customers prefer to move everything in a single outing; others split the job across two or more shorter hires. Before deciding, it is worth noting the total volume of your items, the distances involved and how much time you can realistically set aside on each date. If you are considering multiple trips, write down what would travel first, what could wait, and whether any items have deadlines, such as tools needed on site the next morning. Ask the team to quote for both the single longer hire and the shorter alternatives, including any different delivery or collection arrangements each would require. Comparing those quotes, alongside your own schedule, lets you make an informed choice about which approach suits the job in front of you.
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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.