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.
Writing down what goes where
If a house move is on the cards, a written inventory of items and their destinations can make the hire conversation far clearer. List each piece of furniture or boxed set with its measurements, then note which room or address it belongs to, whether that's the new house, a storage unit or a relative's spare room. Where several stops are involved, number them and record who should be contacted at each one, including a phone number for the person receiving goods. Note the access arrangements, such as parking restrictions or entry codes, for every address on the list, and keep any keys or fobs you'll need somewhere obvious. This record helps the team discuss whether a Luton, Transit or dropside matches the job, alongside your dates. Keep the list handy in case any item is added or removed before the hire begins.
Bringing helpers into the plan
Should friends or family be lending a hand, their part in the day works better when agreed in advance rather than assumed. Write down who has offered, the hours each person can give and the best number for reaching them on the morning itself. Note where each helper will start, whether that's your current address, the storage facility or the delivery point, and who holds keys to each location. If someone may cancel late, think about a standby name to add to the list. Where several people need to travel in the van between stops, ask the team about crew van availability when discussing your dates. These arrangements sit alongside your item list and access notes, giving the team a fuller picture of the job before the vehicle is confirmed.
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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.