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.
Organising a Household Move on Paper
Planning a move to a new address? Begin with a written inventory room by room, noting each item's rough dimensions and any awkward pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or shelving. Recording lengths, widths and heights in the same unit avoids confusion later, and photographs help the team understand unusual shapes. If friends are helping on the day, list their availability alongside your preferred hire dates so the booking matches everyone's schedule. Note where keys, parking permits or access codes will come from at both ends, and keep the recipient's phone number to hand. Ask the team which van sizes could suit the inventory and whether any items might need separate trips. A clear list turns a vague enquiry into a specific one.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How much time should you set aside? Work backwards from your hire dates and note how many evenings or days you can give to packing. List the rooms in the order you plan to tackle them and mark anything that needs dismantling, along with where its fixings will be kept. Record box counts as you go so you can tell the team roughly what volume you expect. If access at either address is restricted to certain hours, write those windows down and confirm them with the property owner or site contact, since they hold the definitive answer. Questions worth asking the team include whether the van can be collected early or returned late, and what the arrangements are if your schedule slips. Deciding these points in advance keeps the day itself calmer.
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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.