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.
Listing a household room by room
Which rooms are you actually moving? Begin there, because a room-by-room inventory beats a rough guess every time. Note each item with its dimensions, mark what dismantles into parts, and count boxes, bags and loose pieces separately. Flag anything fragile or unusually shaped, such as mirrors or artwork, and note whether appliances stay with their fittings. Once the list exists, the team can advise whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches the load, and you can see whether your dates allow one visit or several. Ask what happens if the inventory grows after booking, and keep the list with you to check items off. Recording measurements also helps you decide whether dismantling a bed or table in advance is worth the effort.
Building the timeline around your move
How much of the day will packing take before anything reaches the van? That question often decides whether a one-day hire is realistic or whether the dates should stretch. Sketch the schedule backwards: van arrival, rooms cleared in which order, drive to the new address, then unpacking at the far end. Note the access arrangements at both properties, including any time restrictions, and record a contact name and number for each end, plus the recipient if goods are going into storage. Ask the team whether an earlier start or later finish is possible, how an extension is arranged if the day runs long, and whether a second vehicle can be added if the inventory exceeds one load. Deciding these points beforehand leaves fewer questions open on the day itself.
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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.