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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
List what you are moving first
Begin with a written list of everything going into the van, grouped by room or by job. For furniture, note the height, width and depth of each piece, and mark which items can be dismantled before the hire date. Count your boxes as you pack and keep the tally updated, since the number usually grows in the final days. Record anything fragile, long or awkwardly shaped separately. Alongside the inventory, write down the hire dates, the addresses involved and the access arrangements at each end, such as gates, slopes or restricted parking. If the job is a storage run, note the unit number and the opening hours of the facility. A complete list lets the team consider the vehicle options against what you are actually carrying, and it helps you spot anything still unaccounted for.
Working out your arrival plan
Once the inventory is settled, think through the order in which you want items to come off the van at the destination, and write that plan down before the day. Note which boxes or furniture belong in each room, and consider labelling them accordingly as you pack. If some items are needed immediately, such as tools for a job or essentials for an overnight stay, mark these so they can be identified quickly. Record where the van is likely to stand while unloading and any time limits that might apply at the destination address. For a delivery to a business, note the recipient's name and a contact number, plus any specific instructions they have given. Sharing this plan and the access details with the team when you book keeps everyone working from the same picture.
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Things to check 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.