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.
Decide what the van must carry
The first decision is what actually needs transporting on the day. If the job involves hobby equipment, such as a model railway collection, kayaks, fishing gear or band equipment, set it all out and note the longest and bulkiest pieces, since these usually determine the vehicle you need. A weekend of camping gear asks a different question of a van than a flat-pack delivery, and the answer shapes whether a small van or something larger makes sense. Write the items down, add any boxes or accessories that travel with them, and use that list when you speak to the team about the hire dates and access arrangements at both ends.
Keep an inventory for the day
That same written list is worth keeping until the van is returned. Tick items off as they go in and again as they come out, whether you are moving between a house and a storage unit or collecting from a shop. An inventory helps you notice straight away if a bag or a tool has been left behind, and it makes unloading at the destination far quicker because you know exactly what should arrive. If you are hiring for someone else's collection, share the list with them so the handover is straightforward. The team can also advise on vehicle suitability if your list grows between the enquiry and the hire date.
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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.