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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Book
Start by writing an inventory of every box you plan to move, noting the room it came from and a rough count for each size. Record whether any boxes contain fragile items, since this may affect how you schedule the day, and measure anything that is not a standard box shape, such as rolled rugs or flat-packed furniture. Note the total number of boxes and any bags or loose items, then decide which belong in this trip and which can wait. If items are going to more than one address, list the recipient's name and contact number for each drop-off. These notes give you a clear record to hand over when asking for a quote.
Building Sensible Time Into the Schedule
Before fixing the hire dates, think through how long each stage of the move might take and note where extra time could be needed. Write down when you plan to start, the window allowed for wrapping and packing the last items, and the point at which everything must be finished. Consider whether you will need to collect keys, wait for someone to open a storage unit, or hand items to a recipient who is only free at certain hours, and record each of these alongside their contact details. Ask yourself whether an extra day would remove pressure, and raise that question with the team when discussing the van options available for your dates.
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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.