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.
Listing Boxes Before You Enquire
SDVH Thames Valley & Wessex hires vans across Westbourne for moves, trade work, furniture collections, storage runs and business deliveries. Tell us what you need to carry, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and the team will help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton or crew van where available.
Coordinating the People Helping You
Rather than leaving helpers to sort themselves out on the day, plan who is doing what while the booking is still being arranged. Confirm which friends or family are available, note the times they can commit to, and agree where everyone should meet and when. If someone has a key for the new address or the storage unit, record their name and number so access is never in doubt. Think about how the day is structured: which tasks fall to each helper, whether anyone is running an errand in their own car, and how the schedule might change if a job takes longer than expected. Share the plan with everyone involved, including the addresses and the expected finish time. When you contact the team, mention how many people will be present, ask which vehicle suits the load and dates, and raise any remaining questions about collection or delivery.
Explore other van hire areas
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.
















