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.
Recording Your Delivery Order in Advance
If several drops are planned in one day, writing out the order before you ask for a quote can clarify what you need. List each address, the recipient contact name and phone number, and which items belong at which stop. Note down dimensions and approximate quantities for the larger pieces so the team can consider whether a small van, Transit or Luton fits the job where available. Where a recipient must be phoned ahead, record that instruction alongside their details. If any stop has particular access arrangements, such as a time window or a specific entrance, add it to the same list. This information helps the hire team match the vehicle to the whole day rather than the first leg alone.
Building Time Into Your Packing Plan
Should the hire involve a full house move or a large furniture collection, thinking about timing early avoids guesswork later. Work backwards from the hire dates and note how many rooms or items are involved, including anything awkward such as wardrobes or sofas, with their measurements. Decide whether the whole job fits one day or whether two dates would be needed, and mention both when you enquire. If helpers are joining, note their availability alongside your own. You might also ask the team whether a crew van or dropside would suit the plan where available, and confirm the access arrangements at each end. Any question you can answer in advance keeps the quote stage straightforward.
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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.