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.
Writing a load list before you enquire
Begin with a written inventory of everything that needs to travel, room by room or job by job. List each item with a note on its rough size and whether it comes apart, then mark anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. A list built this way does two jobs: it shows the total volume you are dealing with, and it highlights the single largest item that will set the minimum space you need. Keep the list with you during the move itself so nothing is left behind. Send it, or a summary of it, with your enquiry, since a described load lets the team advise on the right category of van rather than working from a guess.
Working out the unloading order
Think about the destination before anything is loaded. Ask yourself where the van will stop, who will be there to receive the items and which pieces need to come off first. If the delivery is going to a business or a shared building, speak to the person at the other end about access, parking arrangements and any restrictions on when goods can be received. Knowing whether items are bound for one floor or several also changes the order in which they should leave the van. Sharing these details with the team when you book means the plan reflects what happens at both ends of the journey, not just the loading side.
Explore other van hire areas
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.