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.
Setting Aside Time for Packing Days
When you first note the details of your hire, include a simple timeline rather than just a start date. Write down when packing will begin, how many evenings or days it might take, and when you expect to be finished. If the move involves furniture collections or a storage unit, record the opening hours you have been given and the name of anyone you need to meet there. Where a delivery is going to a business, note the receiving contact and their preferred window. Ask yourself whether the whole job could realistically sit within one hire period or whether the schedule needs slack for delays, and put that question to the team when requesting a quote. A written timeline lets you spot clashes early and gives the hire team something concrete to work around.
Keeping a Load Inventory
An itemised inventory is one of the most useful documents you can prepare before a van hire. List each piece you intend to move, from the largest wardrobe down to boxes of books, and note approximate dimensions for anything oversized. Count the boxes as you pack them and update the list if numbers change, since a tally written on Monday may not match reality by Friday. If some items belong to different people or different destinations, mark that on the inventory so nothing is overlooked when plans are finalised. Keep a copy of the list with your hire notes, and be ready to share a summary when you ask about vehicle options. Any item that seems difficult to categorise is worth a specific question in its own right.
Explore other van hire areas
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.