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.
Coordinating helpers for moving day
Who is actually available to help on the day? Settling that question early shapes everything else about the move. Confirm which friends or family members can attend, agree a start time, and let them know where the van will be and roughly how long you expect the work to take. If helpers can only manage part of the day, plan the heaviest rooms around the hours they are free. Ask helpers to bring suitable clothing and to arrive a little before the van, so the first items are ready when you return with the vehicle. A shared message with the address, timing and contact details keeps everyone working to the same plan.
Allowing time for packing and loading
Moves nearly always take longer than first estimated, so build slack into your schedule from the outset. Aim to have boxes packed before the van arrives rather than during the loading, and label each one with its destination room so unloading runs in a sensible order. Set aside items you will need immediately, such as kettle, tools and documents, and keep them separate from the main load. If keys for the new property are handed over at a fixed time, work backwards from that hour when planning your morning. Mention your rough timings to the hire team when arranging the van, since the length of the rental day affects what they can offer you.
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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.