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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Writing Down Your Boxed Belongings List
The first task is a simple one: list every boxed item you plan to move. Note how many boxes there are, their approximate dimensions, and any that stand out as taller or wider than the rest. Record the contents in broad terms, flagging anything fragile or valuable, and count the boxes again a day or two before the hire in case the number has grown. Alongside the list, write your moving dates, the collection address, the delivery address and a contact number for whoever accepts the goods at the other end. If some boxes belong to different people or different rooms, label them on paper as well. This gives the team a full picture when matching your job to a van.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Packing and loading both take longer than most people expect, so build spare hours into your schedule rather than a tight slot. Decide in advance which day you will pack boxes and which day the van is needed, and write down the start and finish times you are aiming for, including any collection or drop-off deadline at the far end. Note who is helping, when they are available, and whether the hire period might need to stretch across two days if the job runs long. If a storage facility or receiving contact has fixed opening times, record those alongside your plan. Questions for the team could include whether the hire dates allow for a spare morning, and what to do if your schedule shifts after booking. Noting these points early keeps arrangements calm.
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Things to check 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.