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.
Moving Boxed Belongings Between Addresses
If your move involves boxed belongings, begin with a written record of what is going. List each box with a rough count of its contents and the room it belongs to, which helps you judge the scale of the job before you speak to the team. Note how many boxes you have, whether any are unusually tall or wide, and which items sit apart from the boxes, such as a bicycle, a rolled rug or a wardrobe. Write down the collection address, the delivery address and the names and phone numbers of contacts at both ends, in case you need to confirm access or timing on the day. Decide your preferred dates and a backup, and consider how long you realistically want the van for, whether a single morning or a full weekend.
Keeping a Load Inventory That Helps
A load inventory is simply a list you can read out or send over when asking about a van. For each entry, record what the item is, its approximate measurements, and whether it comes apart, such as a bed frame with removable legs or a shelf unit that flat-packs. Count bags as well as boxes, since soft luggage and bin liners often get forgotten until the last moment. Against each line, note which address it is destined for if your trip involves more than one drop-off. Keep the inventory with your notes about access, gates, parking and opening times at each stop. When you contact the team, you can share the list and ask any questions you still have about the van options, your helpers travelling with you, or points that remain undecided.
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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.