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.
Mapping Where Each Item Is Headed
If your load is going to more than one address, sketch the plan on paper before you book anything. List each destination in the order you intend to visit, then assign items to it: two sofas to the first stop, four boxes and a bike to the second, and so on. Record the recipient's name and phone number for every address, and note any agreed time windows they've mentioned. Measuring the larger items and adding those dimensions to the list also helps when discussing van sizes, since the totals give the hire team something concrete to work from. If a recipient might not be home, ask them directly how they'd like to handle that. A simple written map of the day keeps every stop accounted for.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
An inventory is a quiet piece of admin that earns its keep on any van job. Start with a numbered list of every item, grouped by destination if there are several, and note quantities carefully: three boxes of kitchenware means three, not a rough guess. Against each entry, add condition notes for anything with existing marks, and jot down dimensions for the bulky pieces. If friends are contributing items to the same run, ask them for their own counts and fold those into the master list. Photographing individual items before the day is another record you can keep. Bring the inventory with you so you can tick items off at each stop, and keep a copy afterwards in case a question arises about what travelled where.
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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.