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
Choose the van around the load. Small vans work well for boxes, tools and light collections. Medium or long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment, while Lutons are better for bulkier house-move items. The available range includes Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB, subject to dates, driver details and availability. The exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are confirmed at quote stage, so the vehicle examples should be used as a guide to the type of hire available rather than a guaranteed reservation of a specific model.
Writing Down What You Need to Carry
Start with a written inventory before you contact the team. List every item going in the van, then measure the awkward pieces: wardrobes, sofas, fridges, workbenches or rolled materials. Note each one's length, width and height in centimetres, and record whether anything comes apart, such as bed frames or shelving. Count the boxes and estimate their combined volume. If some goods belong to other people, such as customers receiving deliveries, add their names and phone numbers to the list. Note any items needing particular care, like glass panels or mirrors, purely as a reminder of what is present. Keep this record handy when you ask for a quote, because the team can then discuss which vehicle option suits the load. Questions about access, timings or multiple stops can be raised at the same time.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How many hours should the loading stage take? Rather than guessing, sketch a rough schedule for the day. Note when packing begins, when the van arrives, and when you expect to set off. Allow for wrapping, dismantling and last-minute items that appear from cupboards and sheds. Record who is helping, their arrival times and their contact numbers. If the job spans two addresses, write down both, plus the phone details of anyone at the receiving end. Think about whether packing could start the evening before to spread the workload. When you request a hire, mention the hours you have in mind, and ask any open questions about collection times or vehicle return. Whether one trip or several is needed depends on your list, so keep the inventory flexible until the vehicle is confirmed.
Explore other van hire areas
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.