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.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Write down everything you plan to carry before you enquire, including items you might otherwise forget, such as tools, loose boxes or paperwork. Note the hire dates you have in mind and think about whether you would want the van for part of a day, a full day or longer. If some items are still being packed, list them separately with a note of when they will be ready. Record the dimensions of the largest pieces and any access arrangements at each address, such as who to contact on arrival. Setting out this information early lets you ask the team about vehicle availability, discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job, and raise any questions about timing that remain open.
Comparing One Trip with Several
Some jobs might work as a single journey, while others could involve several shorter runs. To weigh the options, start by listing every item you need to move and estimating how much space each takes. Note the addresses involved, the contact details at each, and whether anyone at the destination expects the goods at a particular time. Think about the hire dates and whether extending them would change your plans. If you decide several trips could work, record what would travel on each run and who needs to be told about the timing. You can then share these notes with the team, ask how the dates fit with their availability, and check whether the job still matches the vehicle types they can offer.
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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.