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.
Information to Note Before Your Hire
Writing things down before the van arrives saves guesswork on the day. List every item you plan to move, along with approximate dimensions for the awkward ones, such as a wardrobe that stands taller than a door frame or shelving that will not come apart. Note the access arrangements at each end, including any parking restrictions, gate widths or keys you need to collect, and record the name and number of whoever will be at the destination to receive deliveries. Add the hire dates and any flexibility around them. If the job involves hobby equipment, such as model railway boards, kayaks or band PA gear, measure the longest pieces rather than estimating, and keep the list with you when speaking to the team so nothing gets forgotten mid-conversation.
Building Room Into Your Schedule
Time allowances are worth thinking through when you set your hire dates. If packing will take longer than first expected, perhaps because a garage has not been sorted in years or a workshop is being cleared, consider booking the van for a slightly wider window than the bare minimum. Note down each stage of the day, from collecting keys to finishing at the storage unit, and mark which stages depend on other people, such as a friend arriving with a trailer or a shop opening for a furniture collection. Record contact details for anyone involved so you can update them if timings slip. Where a collection has a fixed slot, write that time first and work backwards. A schedule with breathing room is easier to adjust than one planned to the minute.
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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.