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.
Planning a Household Move on Paper
What will actually be travelling in the van? Before contacting the team, walk through each room and write an inventory of the furniture, boxes and awkward items you intend to move, noting approximate dimensions for the largest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or mattresses. Recording this list lets you discuss which van options might suit the load, whether that is a small van, a Luton or something in between. Decide the dates you want the van, including whether you might need it for more than one day, and think about any access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or narrow lanes, which you can raise as questions. If items are going to different addresses, note each recipient and their contact details so deliveries can be sequenced sensibly within your own plan.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How much of your schedule should the move itself occupy? Rather than treating packing and the van journey as one block, sketch a timeline that separates them. Note when boxes will be sealed, when furniture will be dismantled and when the van will be collected, leaving a buffer between each stage in case a task runs long. If friends are helping, agree with them which hours they can commit to and record that in your plan. Keep a list of anything that must stay with you rather than go in the van, such as documents or valuables. When you ask for a quote, you can query whether the hire period you have in mind covers the whole timeline. Any remaining questions can go to the team before you commit.
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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.