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.
Coordinating Helpers on the Day
Who can actually be there when the van is needed? Answering that early gives you a picture of how the day can run. List each helper with the hours they are free and a phone number for the day itself, then note which parts of the schedule depend on particular people, such as someone with keys to the storage unit. If a friend is only available in the morning, mark that beside the relevant task. Where items are going to a recipient, record their name and contact details so you can confirm the handover window. When you ask for a quote, include your dates and this helper schedule, and say whether a crew van interests you, so the team can discuss the options that fit.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs more smoothly when the paperwork is written down rather than held in your head. Start with a room-by-room list of what is coming, noting anything oversized alongside its approximate dimensions. Mark items that belong to other people or that are destined for a recipient, with contact details for each. Sketch the order of the day: which rooms are being cleared first, when helpers arrive and where the van is heading between stops. If storage is part of the plan, note the unit number and who holds the key. Send this outline with your quote request, along with the access arrangements you already know, so the team can talk through van choices from a small van to a Luton.
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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.