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.
Planning a Household Move on Paper
Which rooms are you actually taking, and which are staying behind? Answer that first, because the rest of the move plan grows from it. Walk through the house and list the furniture room by room, noting each item's width, depth and height in centimetres rather than guessing. Count the boxes as you pack and keep a running total, since a figure that changes daily is awkward to quote against. Mark anything that comes apart, such as bed frames or table legs, and note which tools you would need if you plan to dismantle them yourself. Record the addresses for collection and delivery, plus a phone number for anyone at either end. When you ask for a quote, share the item list, the box count and the dates, and ask whether the vehicle you are considering suits the load you have described.
Coordinating the People Helping You
If friends or family have offered to help, a short rota written in advance keeps everyone on the same page. List who is available on which day, and note the hours they can commit, since some may only manage a morning. Record who has keys to the old and new addresses, and who will be the point of contact if plans shift on the day itself. Agree how you will update everyone, whether that is a group message or a phone tree, and write it down so nobody is left guessing. If a helper is bringing their own vehicle for a second run, note that separately from the van booking. When you speak to the team, mention the dates your helpers have confirmed, and ask whether those days can be held while you finalise the rest of the arrangement.
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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.