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.
Recording Your Boxed Belongings
Before contacting the team, write out what will actually travel. Count the boxes, note their rough sizes and mark which ones contain fragile items, so you have a full picture of the load rather than a rough guess. Record the dates you plan to load, move and unload, plus any access arrangements at each end, including who to speak to on arrival. If items are going to more than one address, list each recipient with a phone number. Keep a separate line for anything that is not boxed, such as rolled carpets or a mattress, along with its dimensions. The questions still open are whether a Transit covers the job, whether a Luton would serve the whole move in one booking, and what the team needs to see before confirming a vehicle and price.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
If you are deciding between a single larger booking and a few shorter ones, start by writing the dates for each option. Note how many items each run would involve, the access at every stop, and whether anyone can receive goods if you are not there in person. Compare the lists side by side: total number of boxes, awkward pieces, and the contact details required at each destination. It may help to record the opening hours of anyone you are collecting from, so a planned second run does not collide with a closed door. What remains undecided is usually the vehicle size, whether a crew van is needed for helpers travelling along, and the final hire window, all of which the team can talk through once your notes are ready.
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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.