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
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 a Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything that needs to travel in the van, however ordinary it seems. A written load inventory gives you something to check against when discussing vehicle options and helps avoid last-minute surprises. Group items by room or job, note the quantity of each, and record approximate dimensions for anything oversized, such as wardrobes, workbenches or rolled flooring. Note which pieces come apart, if you know, and which boxes are fragile. If some items might be left behind or collected later, mark them separately so your list stays flexible. When you contact the team, this inventory forms the basis of the conversation about which van options might suit the job, and it gives you a reference point on the day itself.
Moving Boxed Belongings
If your hire is for boxed belongings, a little preparation goes a long way. Begin by counting your boxes and noting their rough sizes, since a dozen small cartons presents differently from a dozen large ones. List any bags, crates or containers that are not standard boxes, and flag anything irregular such as a vacuum cleaner or a dismantled bed frame. Decide in advance which items travel with you personally and which go in the van, then keep the list somewhere reachable. If items are heading to more than one address, note the recipient names and contact numbers for each drop, and confirm access arrangements at both ends. These details are worth raising when you request a quote, since they may influence the vehicle and schedule discussed.
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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.