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.
Note Down Your Packing Timeline
Start by writing a simple schedule for the days around your hire. Note when packing will begin, which rooms or items still need attention, and the point at which everything should be boxed and ready. If friends or colleagues have offered help, record their names and the hours they can give you, since this shapes how the day unfolds. Measure the larger pieces you intend to move, including wardrobes, sofas and any appliances, and keep those dimensions with your notes. Note the number of boxes, bags and loose items as they accumulate. You can then ask the team whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the volume described, and whether the dates you have pencilled in are workable. Any gaps in the schedule are worth flagging early.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs more smoothly when each part of it is written down. List every item going to the new address, grouping them by room, and mark anything fragile or unusually shaped so nothing is overlooked. Record the contact details for both the old and new property, including anyone holding keys, and confirm which times each party can attend. If storage is part of the plan, note the facility's opening hours and your reference number alongside the rest of your paperwork. Questions you might put to the team include whether a crew van is needed for additional passengers, how access arrangements affect the vehicle matched to your job, and what to do if the move date shifts. Keeping this information together lets you raise anything uncertain before the hire begins.
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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.