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.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Your first decision may be whether everything goes in a single hire or whether splitting the job across several days works out more sensibly. To make that call, list what you need to move, note approximate dimensions for the larger pieces and count how many boxes, bags or tools are involved. If some items can wait a week, that flexibility could shape which hire period you request. Ask the team what van options are available for your dates and share your inventory when you do, raising any questions about collection timing early. If a friend is receiving furniture at the far end, gathering their contact details now keeps the quote request straightforward.
Recording What Goes Where
If the job involves stops at more than one address, sketching the sequence beforehand can clarify what to tell the team. Note each delivery or pickup point, who will be present there and a phone number for whoever is receiving items. Recording which pieces belong to which destination, along with rough sizes, gives the team a clear picture of the run. If storage is part of the plan, check the access arrangements there too and note any time limits on your booking slot. Questions worth asking include whether your chosen dates affect the van options available and what details the team needs from you to prepare the quote, so the whole job can be discussed accurately before you book.
Explore other van hire areas
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.