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.
Setting up a delivery in advance
If a delivery is on the cards, begin by listing every item that will leave your premises, including quantities and any reference numbers the recipient expects. Record the dimensions of the largest pieces and, where relevant, their approximate weights, since this information helps the team suggest a suitable van type. Next, confirm the delivery address and the recipient's contact details, including a phone number and any preferred arrival window. Ask the recipient about access arrangements, such as gates, parking or which entrance to use, and write the answers down. When you request a quote, present this information together: the item list, the dates, the destination contact and any access notes. Any questions that remain open, such as whether someone will be available to receive the goods, are worth flagging at this stage.
Keeping a clear load inventory
Suppose you are moving a mixture of boxes, furniture and odd-shaped items. Before the hire date, draft an inventory that records each item, its quantity and its measurements, so nothing is left to guesswork. Number the boxes and keep the list with you, adding a note of anything fragile or needing particular care in transit. If items are going to more than one address, group them on the list by destination and note who should receive each group. Photographing larger pieces can help you describe them accurately when discussing van options. When you contact the team, share the full inventory and ask which vehicle groups they would consider for it; you can also ask whether your dates allow any flexibility if the load turns out larger than expected.
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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.