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 items to plan the unloading order
If you are moving a mix of furniture and boxes, you might begin by writing an inventory grouped by room or destination. Note each item's dimensions and roughly where it needs to end up, whether that is a specific floor, a storage unit or a particular address. If several stops are involved, record the contact name and number at each one, plus any time windows they have given you. You can also flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, since these details often prompt useful follow-up questions. This list becomes useful when you speak to the team, because it shows the volume and variety involved and helps the discussion about which van categories suit the job where available.
Weighing one trip against several runs
When the total load looks large, a choice often arises between one bigger vehicle or repeated runs in a smaller one. To decide, list everything with sizes and quantities, then consider how many trips each option would involve and how much time you can set aside. Think about who will be at the destination to receive items on each run, and note their availability, since a second trip only works if someone can take delivery again. Fuel for multiple journeys, parking at both ends and your own stamina across the day may also shape the decision. Once you have a rough picture, ask the team which vehicles are available on your dates and whether any options carry your helpers as well as the load, and raise any questions about access arrangements, so the comparison rests on real information.
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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.