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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Choosing Between One Trip and Several
Your first decision may be whether the whole job happens in one outing or across several shorter ones. To make that call, note the full list of items, their approximate sizes and any pieces that cannot be taken apart, then consider how many days you can realistically dedicate to the job. If you are leaning towards a single trip, record the hire dates, the access arrangements at each address and whether anyone needs to be present to hand over keys. If several trips appeal instead, write down what could travel on each date and which items are needed soonest. Ask the team to quote for both approaches, mentioning whether you would collect the van or prefer delivery, so you can weigh the options against your own schedule before booking.
Coordinating the People Helping You
If friends, family or colleagues are lending a hand, a little coordination goes a long way. Start by listing who is available on each possible date, and confirm their hours so you know when help starts and ends. Agree how everyone will stay in touch on the day, whether by group message or phone calls, and share the addresses involved along with any access instructions, such as gate codes or parking notes, that you have gathered from the relevant contacts. Record who holds keys for each property and who will be at the destination to receive items, including a contact number for them. Pass the confirmed dates to the team when you request your quote, so the van arrangement lines up with the help you have organised.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.