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.
Building a Written Inventory of Boxes
Start with a written list of everything you intend to move. Count the boxes room by room, note their rough sizes, and add any furniture, appliances or awkward items to the same list. Record which belongings are fragile and which are needed urgently at the new address. If some items might be sold or given away before the move, mark them so your final numbers stay realistic. This inventory is useful when you contact the team, because it gives them a clearer picture of the job and helps the conversation about van options. If you are unsure how to describe anything, photographs taken on your phone can accompany your enquiry and help clarify what needs to travel.
Setting a Realistic Schedule for Packing
Realistic timing is one of the most useful things to plan. Work backwards from your hire dates and note how much packing remains, bearing in mind that evenings and weekends may be the only windows you have. Consider whether the van is needed for a single day or whether an overnight hire would suit a longer move. Write down the collection and drop-off times you expect, plus any deadlines such as key handovers or storage unit closing hours. If friends are helping, agree the times with them before you book rather than after. Where the schedule looks tight, you might ask the team about extending the hire period. These notes give you something concrete to discuss when requesting a quote.
Explore other van hire areas
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.