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.
List What You Plan to Move First
Open a notes app or grab a pad and record everything due to travel before you contact the team. Measure or estimate the dimensions of the largest pieces, such as sofas, mattresses and shelving units, and count the boxes, bags and loose items separately. Note whether furniture will be dismantled beforehand and how many sections each item splits into. Add your preferred hire dates, any flexibility around them, and the access arrangements at both ends, including gates, driveways or parking limits you already know about. Keep this record handy during the enquiry so you can answer questions without guessing. If the list changes as your plans develop, update it, because a current inventory lets the team suggest the right van category and discuss what is available for your dates.
Coordinating Helpers Around Your Hire
If friends or family are helping with your move, arrange them before the van is booked rather than after. Ask who is free on your candidate dates and note their availability windows, since a half-day constraint might decide which date works. Record names and phone numbers in one place, and agree where everyone should meet and at what time. Check whether anyone helping has a vehicle that could carry a second load of small items, and note what they are willing to take. Confirm tea and lunch arrangements if the job will run long. Once the helpers are fixed, you can align the hire dates with certainty instead of hoping people turn out to be free. A written plan also makes it simple to send everyone the same details.
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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.