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.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Your first decision is whether everything travels in a single outing or across a handful of shorter runs. Start by listing every item you plan to move, then note the rough dimensions and quantity of each so you can see the total volume at a glance. If the list suggests one van load might not cover it, think about whether splitting the work over two days suits your schedule better than squeezing everything into one. Some customers prefer a single longer day; others find separate morning and afternoon runs fit around other commitments. Whichever route appeals, share your draft list and proposed dates with the team and ask which vehicle option they would recommend for that volume.
Planning Your Time Around the Load
Once the shape of the trip is settled, build a realistic timetable for the day itself. Note how long you expect to spend at each address, including any wait for keys, paperwork or handovers, and add a buffer in case a collection runs late. If friends are helping, agree arrival and finish times in advance and confirm who is bringing straps, blankets or tools so nothing is assumed on the morning. It also helps to record a contact number for anyone receiving goods at the far end, in case plans shift mid-route. When you request a quote, ask about the hire period covered and whether extending it on the day is straightforward, since that answer shapes how much slack your schedule needs.
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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.