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.
Organising a Household Move
Moving home soon? The groundwork that helps most is a room-by-room inventory listing every item due to travel, with the dimensions of the largest pieces such as sofas, wardrobes and mattresses noted beside them. Group the list by destination room if some things are going to more than one address, and record a contact name and number for whoever will receive items at each end. Add the hire dates, any preferred collection or return times, and any access arrangements you already know, such as parking restrictions the destination contact has described. When you enquire, share the inventory summary and ask whether a Luton, dropside or small van fits your dates, along with anything else the team needs before confirming a booking.
Coordinating Helpers
If friends or family are assisting with the move, keep a single shared note of who is available on which date and at what time, including anyone only able to help for part of the day. Record each helper's contact number and the tasks they have agreed to cover, whether that is looking after children, meeting a furniture delivery or being present at the new address. Where helpers are meeting the van at a different location, write down that address and the expected arrival window, and confirm it with them before the hire date. Ask the team about the hire period and return arrangements when requesting a quote, and mention if your helper numbers might change the vehicle size you need, so the enquiry reflects the plan as it currently stands.
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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.