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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Drafting an inventory before moving day
Say the move is booked for next month and the spare room is already filling with boxes. That is the moment to start a written inventory rather than relying on memory. List every item you intend to carry, grouping them by room, and add approximate measurements for anything bulky such as mattresses, tables or shelving. A count of boxes, bags and loose pieces gives the team a solid basis for discussing which van suits the job. If certain things are being sold, binned or left for a later trip, mark them so the list reflects only what travels. Where furniture will be collected from a shop or a previous owner, note the seller's contact details too, and raise any open questions when you request a quote.
Deciding between one trip and several
Whether a single journey or several shorter runs suits your plan depends on details worth writing down before you enquire. Consider the distance between addresses, how many people can help on the day, and whether anything could be moved in stages across the hire period. If a storage unit is involved, note its access hours and how they interact with your proposed dates. Sketch a rough sequence of trips, including who receives items at each end and their phone numbers, so the day can be discussed clearly with the team. If you are torn between one larger van for a single outing or a smaller option used twice, describe both scenarios and ask which the team would recommend for your dates before booking.
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Last checks 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.