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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Weigh one trip against several
The choice worth weighing early is whether to move everything in a single run or split the job across two. One run with a larger van saves repeating the journey, but a couple of trips in something smaller can suit a modest load, limited access or a narrow window of time. Think about how far the destination sits from the collection point, since distance multiplies the cost of repeating the route in effort and hours. Consider who is available to help at each end and for how long, because that often decides what is realistic. Once you have a preferred approach, explain it to the team. They can then talk through which vehicle fits the plan you have actually chosen.
Plan the unloading order
Work out the order in which items will come off at the destination before the van is loaded. If the washing machine is needed in the kitchen first and the boxes are destined for a loft, say so to everyone helping, so the right pieces come off at the right moment. Ask the recipient what access is like at their end, including where a van can pull up and how far items must travel indoors, since those answers shape the whole job. Agree a rough sequence for rooms or drop points if several destinations are involved. Communicating this in advance keeps the unloading staged and stops items being handled twice. A short conversation beforehand usually saves considerable time on the day.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.