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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Listing Your Boxes and Belongings First
Start by making an inventory of everything you plan to move. Count the boxes, note any furniture or awkward items, and jot down rough dimensions for the larger pieces so you can describe them accurately when you enquire. If some items are going to different addresses, group the list by destination and record who will be receiving each batch, including a phone number where they can be reached on the day. This written list also helps you spot anything you have not yet packed or measured. When you contact the team, you can share the full inventory, the hire dates and the access arrangements at each end, which gives them a clear basis for suggesting whether a small van, Luton or another option from the range suits the job.
Planning a Realistic Timetable for the Move
Once the inventory exists, think about how the days around the move are structured. Decide when packing needs to be finished, when the van is collected or delivered, and roughly how long each stage of the journey might take, leaving room for delays rather than assuming everything runs to the minute. If friends or family are helping, agree arrival times with them in advance and note who is responsible for each part of the schedule. Where items are being dropped at a storage unit or a recipient's address, confirm opening times or an agreed window with the people there. Writing the timetable down, including the hire dates and any contingency, gives you something to share with everyone involved and a reference point if arrangements need adjusting.
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Things to check 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.