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.
Confirming Who Is Helping on the Day
Who will be there to help on the day? Confirming your helpers early avoids last-minute gaps in the plan. Write down each person's name, mobile number and the hours they have committed to, then share the hire dates with everyone before you finalise the booking. If someone can only attend part of the day, note the window they can cover. Record who holds keys to the origin and destination addresses, and who to call if a helper drops out. Where items are being collected from a shop or a private seller, ask for that person's contact details and their preferred collection window. Passing these details along when you request a quote gives the team a fuller picture of the schedule you are working to.
Recording Which Items Are Needed First
Which items will you need first at the far end? Making a simple list before collection day keeps the whole job organised. Note the room each item belongs to, and label boxes with both a room name and a short contents description so helpers can identify them at a glance. Record the dimensions of large furniture, along with whether anything dismantles, and photograph items you want to be able to check afterwards. If some things are staying behind or heading elsewhere, list those separately with the recipient's address and phone number. Ask yourself whether anything is needed urgently at the destination and note it clearly. Sharing this inventory when you enquire helps the team match the job to the right van for the load.
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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.