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.
Writing a clear load inventory
The first thing worth writing down is a simple list of everything the van needs to carry. Go room by room or job by job and note each item, its rough dimensions and whether it comes apart, since a wardrobe that dismantles changes the picture considerably. Count boxes rather than guessing, and flag anything unusually long, tall or awkward. If the trip involves a furniture collection or storage run, record where each item is coming from and going to, plus a contact name and number at each end. That inventory then becomes the basis of your conversation about vehicle choice, because the team can only match a small van, Luton or crew van to the job if they know what the job contains. Keep the list handy in case you need to add items later.
Setting aside enough time for packing
How long will packing actually take once the van arrives? It is worth thinking through honestly by considering what needs to be ready before it can travel. If you plan to hire for a single day, sketch a timeline backwards from the return time: hours for getting everything prepared, hours on the road, hours for unpacking at the far end, plus a margin for anything that runs late. Note who is available to help on each side, and record any collection or drop-off windows you have already agreed. When you request a quote, mention the timings you have in mind and ask whether the hire window leaves room for the unexpected, or whether an extra day would be worth considering.
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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.