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
Before anything is packed, write out a full list of what the van will carry. Group the items by type, such as boxes, furniture, appliances, tools or loose bags, and note the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces alongside a total box count. If something is awkwardly shaped, a wardrobe or a ladder for example, record its measurements rather than a guess, and flag anything dismantled or in parts. This inventory is the information the hire team uses when matching your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, so an accurate list leads to a more useful conversation. Keep it updated as items are added or dropped, and bring the final version with you when collecting, since it doubles as a record of what should arrive at the other end.
Sequencing your stops and drop-offs
Think about the order of the day before you finalise dates. If the van is visiting more than one address, note each stop, who will be there to receive goods, and a phone number for every contact, including anyone at a storage site or a shop counter. Where a furniture collection is involved, write down the collection window the seller has given you and whether they need notice before you arrive. Record your own availability too, including the hours when helpers can join and any fixed deadline, such as a unit that closes at a certain time. If part of the schedule is still undecided, mark it as provisional and mention that when you enquire. Working through the sequence on paper often shows up gaps, such as a missing contact number, while there is still time to fill them in.
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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.