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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Recording Your Boxed Belongings
Before you request a van, start by listing every boxed item you intend to move. For each box, note a rough description, the room it belongs to and any label you have already written on it. Measure the larger boxes and record their dimensions, since a few oversized cartons can shape which vehicle group you ask about. Count the total number of boxes, then add anything loose that will travel alongside them, such as rolled rugs or bagged bedding. If some boxes are going to a different address, mark that on the list too. When you contact the team, you can share the count, the biggest dimensions and the access arrangements, then ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van would suit the job where available.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Is one journey realistic, or would several shorter runs fit your day better? Write down every address involved, the distance between them and the hours you have available, then compare a single trip carrying everything with a plan of two or three visits. If you choose multiple runs, note what would travel in each one and which items can wait until the last visit. For a single trip, record the full item list and the access details at each end, including any gates, parking spots or contact names. Questions for the hire team might include whether the dates you prefer remain open and which vehicle option fits the number of journeys you have sketched out, so you can decide with the full picture.
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Things to check 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.