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.
Comparing One Trip with Several
Start by deciding whether everything could travel in a single run or whether two shorter hires would suit the job better. List each item you need to move, note its approximate dimensions, and count the bags or boxes involved so both options can be compared on paper. If a second trip is possible, record the dates you would use for each leg and who will be present at either end. Where a collection point has its own opening hours, note a contact number there in case timings move. Asking the team how hire periods are divided, and what happens if a job runs longer than expected, gives you firmer ground when choosing between one larger booking and a pair of smaller ones.
Moving Boxed Belongings
A written inventory of your boxes saves guesswork at every stage of the enquiry. Number each box, jot down what category it holds, and note any unusually shaped pieces alongside their measurements, since that information helps the team suggest a suitable van. Decide in advance which boxes travel with you and which might follow later, and record the addresses involved together with a contact at each. If storage forms part of the plan, ask what the facility needs from you on arrival and note their hours alongside your hire dates. Questions about the size of van to request, or whether a particular item changes the answer, can all be raised with the team before the booking is made.
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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.