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.
One Trip or Several: Making the Call
The first decision worth pinning down is whether the whole job happens in a single outing or across multiple runs. Begin by writing out every item involved, from furniture and boxes to tools and materials, then group them by destination. If a house move and a storage run land on the same weekend, one longer hire might cover both, whereas separate short hires could work if the dates are spread out. Note any deadlines, such as a collection slot or a customer waiting on a delivery, since these shape the schedule. When you ask for a quote, check how the dates could be arranged for each option and whether the vehicle choice differs between them. A simple written schedule makes the comparison straightforward.
Recording What Moves and When
Alongside deciding the number of trips, it helps to note the order in which things need to happen across the day. List each drop-off and collection point with its address, and record when each contact expects you, including phone numbers so you can confirm on the morning. If some furniture is destined for storage and other pieces for a new address, mark which is which on your list. Note the access arrangements at every stop, such as parking restrictions or gate codes, and pass these to the team with your enquiry. Ask whether the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van you have in mind can be reserved for the full period, and raise any questions about the 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.