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.
Setting Aside Enough Packing Time
The first detail to settle is how much time the packing stage genuinely needs. Open a calendar and mark the hire dates, then work backwards: which items must be boxed, wrapped or dismantled beforehand, and which can be gathered on the day? If furniture legs come off, doors come off their hinges at home, or a shed needs clearing first, those jobs belong on the list too. Note any third parties involved - a seller releasing goods at a set hour, a storage facility with fixed opening times, a neighbour lending blankets - and their contact details. Building this timeline before enquiring lets you see whether the window feels workable or whether different dates would give the job more breathing space, which is a question the team can then answer directly.
Coordinating Your Helpers
Who is helping, and when are they free? Make a simple list of everyone who has agreed to assist, their available hours, and a phone number for each. Note what each person is taking responsibility for, whether that is wrapping crockery, minding pets during the move or holding a set of keys at the far end. If helpers are only free for part of the day, record the exact window so the busiest stretch can be planned around them. Check whether anyone needs a lift to or from the start point, and note where vehicles other than the hire van will be parked during the job. Sharing this schedule with everyone involved keeps the day coordinated and gives the team a fuller picture if you mention the arrangement when booking.
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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.