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.
Keeping a written load inventory
Write down everything that needs to move before you contact the team. A simple inventory, grouped by room or by job, tells you roughly how much space the load needs and whether anything requires special handling or a second trip. Note bulky items separately, along with anything fragile that needs to travel with care. The list also helps on the day, because you can check items off as they are loaded and again as they come off at the far end. Share the inventory summary with the team when you enquire, since an accurate description of the load helps them pair the job with a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where one is available for your dates.
Moving boxed belongings with care
Boxed possessions benefit from a bit of planning at both ends of the journey. Decide the order in which boxes will be needed at the destination, and label each one with its room and contents so nothing is opened twice. Before the move, ask the person receiving the items where they should go, whether access has any quirks and what time suits arrival. That conversation prevents a van full of boxes sitting outside an address that is not ready. Keep valuables and documents with you rather than in the load. When you speak to the team, mention the number of boxes, the access arrangements and your dates so they can suggest a suitable van for the job.
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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.