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.
Writing Down Your Load Inventory
If you are moving house or collecting furniture, a written inventory of every item is worth preparing before you contact the team. List each piece with its approximate length, width and height, and note whether anything comes apart, such as a bed frame or a table with removable legs. Record fragile items separately so they are easy to spot on the list, and count bags and boxes rather than estimating. Where an item is unusually shaped, a short description helps the team picture it. You can then ask which van size they would suggest for that inventory and whether any item raises questions they would want to discuss. Keeping the list on your phone means you can add items as you pack and update the enquiry if the total changes.
Deciding the Order of Your Day
Suppose your hire covers several pickups and drop-offs across one day; thinking through the sequence beforehand helps you brief the team accurately. Note each address, the contact name and number for whoever is receiving or handing over goods, and any time windows they have given you. Ask each recipient whether their site has particular access arrangements, since they know their own premises and can tell you directly. Mark which stops are fixed appointments and which are flexible, so you can see where the order could change if a delay occurs. You might also list which items belong to which destination, cross-referencing your inventory. Presenting this plan with your dates allows the team to flag anything they need clarified before confirming the vehicle.
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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.