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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Enquire
A written inventory of your boxed belongings gives you a clear basis for choosing a van. Go room by room and note each box, its approximate dimensions, and a short description of what is inside, such as kitchen items or books. Count the total boxes and set aside any that are unusually large or awkwardly shaped, including rolled rugs or flat-packed furniture, recording their measurements separately. If some items are going to storage rather than a new address, mark which destination each box belongs to. Take photographs of anything valuable so you have a record alongside your list. When you contact the team for a quote, share the inventory, the hire dates and the access arrangements at each end, and ask any questions you have about matching the load to the available vans.
Coordinating Helpers for Moving Day
If friends or family are helping with your move, plan their involvement before the hire begins. Write down who has confirmed, what time each person can start, and how long they can stay, since availability often varies across the day. Note their contact numbers so you can send updates if timings shift, and agree in advance where everyone should meet, particularly if the van is being collected rather than delivered. Ask whether any helper has restrictions, such as needing to leave by a certain hour, and build that into your schedule. Decide who will be present at each address to hand over or receive keys, and record their details too. Sharing this schedule with the team when you enquire, alongside your hire dates and access arrangements, helps keep the whole day coordinated.
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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.