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.
Note the details before you book
Before requesting a quote, it helps to write down a few basics that the team will ask about. Start with your preferred hire dates, including whether you might need the vehicle for a single day or across several. Then list what you plan to carry: boxed belongings, tools, furniture or mixed loads. For each item, note the approximate dimensions, since this information helps the team when they look at vehicle options for your job. Record the addresses involved, any access notes such as gates or narrow lanes, and a contact number for whoever will receive goods at the far end. If anything is still uncertain, such as collection times, ask the team directly when you call, as they can talk through the options with you.
One trip or several: weighing it up
If you are moving boxed belongings, it is worth pausing to compare a single larger hire against several smaller runs. Jot down how many boxes you have and their sizes, then sketch a rough count of journeys for each vehicle option you are considering. Some customers prefer fewer trips in a bigger van, while others find a smaller vehicle over two or three visits suits their other commitments better. Think about who will be available on the day, whether any helpers can join for a second run and how dates line up with keys or access slots. There is no universal answer, so treat it as a planning exercise: once you have your numbers, the team can talk through the arrangements that might work for your schedule.
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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.