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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is the starting point for any van hire conversation. List each item you plan to carry, from boxes and bags to furniture and appliances, and give approximate dimensions for anything large. Note which items are fragile, which might be dismantled, and which belong to someone else, since a furniture collection or business delivery usually involves a recipient. Record that person's name, address and phone number so they can be reached on the day. If the job is a storage run, jot down the storage unit reference and its access hours. Once the inventory is drafted, you can share it with the team, who can talk through the options, from a small van through to a Luton, dropside or crew van where available, along with the hire dates and access arrangements that apply to your booking.
Thinking About Timing and Schedules
How long will the job actually take, and when does each stage need to happen? Before booking, sketch out the day: when items would be ready to go, when the destination contact is available to receive them, and when the van needs to be returned. If access at either end is restricted to certain hours, note those windows down, since the team will ask about access arrangements. Allow room in your plan for unexpected delays, such as a key collection that runs late or a recipient who is not yet home, and keep their contact details close at hand so you can check on the day. Writing out a simple timeline, with a question mark beside anything uncertain, gives you a clear basis for discussing hire dates with the team and spotting anything that still needs resolving.
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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.