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.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
Before anything else, write down every item you plan to carry, from the largest wardrobe to the smallest box of tools. A written inventory gives you something to work from when deciding what travels in one go and what can wait. Next to each entry, note the approximate dimensions and any awkward features, such as a sofa that will not separate into pieces or a fridge that needs keeping upright. If some things belong to other people, record who and where they are going. This list also helps when you ring for a quote, because the team can only suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van once they know what is actually being moved. Keep the list somewhere easy to reach on the day.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How long will packing actually take? That question deserves an answer at the planning stage rather than on the morning of the hire. Think through each room or storage area, note which items need wrapping or dismantling, and estimate how many hours each stage might take if you work steadily. If friends are helping, agree in advance when they will arrive and how long they can stay. Record the hire dates alongside your packing schedule so you can see whether an earlier start would be sensible. You might also ask the team whether extending the hire period is possible if your inventory suggests the job could run longer than first expected, and raise any questions about access at each address with the people based there.
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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.