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.
Setting Aside Time for Packing and Loading
When you plan a hire, think about how the dates themselves will be structured. Note the day and time you want the van to start, then estimate how long packing might take at the origin and how long unpacking could take at the destination. Write down anything that could stretch the schedule, such as waiting for a landlord to release keys, a shop to open for a furniture collection or a storage facility to process paperwork. If you are matching the hire to a delivery deadline, record that deadline alongside the start time so the two can be compared. Questions to consider include whether an extra day of hire would give breathing space, and whether the access arrangements at each end are already confirmed with the relevant contacts rather than still assumed.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things you can prepare before requesting a van. List every item you expect to carry, from furniture and appliances to boxes, bags and tools, and note the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, including their height, width and depth. Mark which items belong to which room or recipient, particularly for business deliveries or shared moves, and record a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods. This list lets the team see the scale of the job when matching it to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Open questions to raise include whether any single item is unusually shaped, and whether the destination contact has confirmed when someone will be available to accept the delivery.
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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.