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.
Who is helping on moving day?
How many people can genuinely commit to helping, and for how long? Ask each helper directly, note their answers, and build your schedule around the hours they confirm rather than vague promises. Record who is available for packing beforehand, who will be present for the van itself, and who can assist with returning items to storage or a charity shop afterwards. Collect a contact number for everyone so you can send updates if timings move. If a helper cancels, you will want to know early enough to adjust the plan or ask someone else. Sharing the expected crew size with the team during your enquiry can also shape the conversation about whether a crew van is worth considering alongside the load itself and the dates you have chosen.
How much time should packing take?
Set aside more time for packing and preparation than the van journey itself, and work backwards from your hire date. List the rooms in order of priority, decide which boxes need to be ready first, and mark a realistic completion point for each stage in the days before the collection. Note tasks that depend on others, such as dismantling furniture before wrapping the parts or emptying drawers before a unit can be moved. If you are collecting items from a shop or storage facility, check their opening hours and add those to the same schedule. Once your timeline is drafted, include the key timings in your enquiry so the team understands how the day is structured. A written plan also shows quickly whether any part needs rethinking.
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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.