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.
Choosing Between One Journey or More
The first question to settle is whether the whole job might fit into one outing or whether several shorter journeys are on the cards. If you are weighing the two, list every item with approximate measurements and mark anything that could be left behind for a later date. Sometimes a single larger van from the available range covers everything; other times, two half-days suit the schedule better, particularly if a storage unit or collection point has limited opening hours. Note the dates you have in mind for each option and any deadlines attached to them. If helpers are only free on certain days, record that too. Present both versions to the team when you ask for a quote, along with any questions about vehicle availability.
Coordinating Helpers on the Day
If friends or family have offered to help, it pays to gather their details before the booking is fixed. Write down who is available, on which dates, and a phone number for each person so you can reach them if timings shift. Ask whether anyone would prefer a specific role, such as meeting you at the storage unit or waiting at the new address, and note their answers. If a helper is bringing their own vehicle, record that separately in case it changes what needs to travel in the van. Agreeing a check-in time on the morning of the job keeps everyone aligned, though plans can always change. Whatever is still undecided, from hire dates to access arrangements, can be raised with the team as part of your quote request.
Explore other van hire areas
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.