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.
Setting Aside Enough Time for Packing
What information should you record before the van arrives? Begin with your dates and build the packing schedule backwards from them. Decide which rooms will be boxed first, usually those you use least, and note how many boxes you expect from each. If furniture needs dismantling, write down which pieces and whether you have the tools to hand. Record the access arrangements at both addresses, including any time windows agreed with a destination contact, so the hire can be planned around them. Ask yourself whether one day is realistic or whether an overnight or weekend hire would suit the job better, and put that question to the team when you request a quote, since they can talk through the options.
Getting Boxed Belongings in Order
A clear record of your boxes makes the whole move easier to manage. Label each one with its room and a short contents note, then keep a master list numbering every box so nothing goes missing between addresses. Note the dimensions of any unusually large boxes or flat-packed furniture, since these details help the team judge whether a Transit or a Luton is the closer match to your load. If some boxes are heading to storage rather than the new house, separate them on the list and record the storage facility's contact details and access hours. You might also count how many boxes could travel by car instead, which is a useful figure to mention alongside your enquiry.
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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.