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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Measuring Entrances and Awkward Items
Which matters more, the size of the van or the size of the doorways? Both deserve attention before you book. List every item you plan to move, then measure the height, width and depth of the largest ones, noting anything that will not fit through a standard doorway without being angled or dismantled. Walk the route from the room to the vehicle and record the narrowest gap, tightest corner and any steps or thresholds along the way. For deliveries to a customer or a storage site, note their opening hours and ask them directly about access restrictions, since they hold that information. These measurements and notes give you something concrete to discuss when comparing a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and they let the team answer your questions with specifics rather than assumptions.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who is doing what on moving day? Writing this down before the hire starts keeps everyone aligned. List the people who have offered to help, the times they are available and any gaps in their schedules that affect the plan. Note which tasks each person will take on, from holding doors to looking after pets or children during the busiest hours. Confirm the hire dates with everyone involved, including the start time and the address where the van will be collected or delivered. Record a contact number for each helper and for anyone at the destination, such as a storage facility receptionist, so you can reach the right person if timings change. If a helper drops out, you will know straight away which part of the schedule needs adjusting before the hire date arrives.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.