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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Start with a written inventory of everything going into boxes, grouped by room, along with an approximate count. Note the dimensions of the largest boxes and any awkward shapes, since a record of sizes helps the team talk through which van might suit. If some items are going to a different address, perhaps a storage unit or a relative's house, list each destination with the name and phone number of whoever will be there to receive them. Decide whether the move needs to happen in one day or can be spread across several. Questions worth asking include which van sizes are free on your chosen dates, whether a crew van is needed if helpers are travelling too, and what access details the team would find useful with your enquiry.
One Trip or Several
The choice between a single run and multiple shorter trips is worth settling early, because it shapes the hire length you request. Count your boxes and bulky pieces, then consider whether they could reasonably be split across two visits if the addresses are close together, or whether one longer hire with a larger van fits the calendar better. Record the opening hours of any storage facility or collection point involved, plus the contact details for anyone meeting you at either end. If you are still undecided, ask the team how the price compares between a one-day Luton booking and a two-day small van booking, and whether a dropside or Transit would be available should your plans change. Keeping these notes together makes the final decision easier to explain.
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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.