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.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Start by writing down the dates you have in mind, including the day you plan to pack boxes and the day the van is needed. Note the hours available on each date, since a job squeezed into a single afternoon raises different questions from one spread across a weekend. Record what you intend to carry, listing items such as furniture, appliances, boxed goods or materials, and add rough dimensions for anything large. If a collection or delivery depends on someone else, note their contact name and number so you can confirm timing with them directly. It is also worth deciding whether the whole job happens on one date or whether items can be moved in stages, and to keep that decision open until you have spoken with the team about vehicle availability.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs more smoothly when the details are gathered in one place before anything is booked. Draft a room-by-room list of what is coming with you, marking items that are oversized or fragile, and note the address of the property you are leaving along with any access details you already know, such as parking arrangements or restrictions you have observed. Record the contact details for whoever is receiving items at the other end, if that is a different person or business. Keep a separate note of the questions still unanswered, including whether both properties will be accessible at the times you want, and whether any furniture will need to be dismantled before the move. Sharing this list with the team helps them discuss which van options might be considered.
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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.