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.
One trip or several short runs
The first decision many customers make is how many journeys the job really needs. Carrying a sofa and a few boxes in a single load can suit a larger van, while splitting a small flat move across two or three runs might work well in something more compact. Think about the total time available, parking at each end and how much lifting you want to do on the day. It can also help to list your bulkiest items first, since those usually dictate the vehicle size rather than the number of boxes. If the load includes anything long, flat or awkwardly shaped, mention it when you enquire so the team can talk through the options and check what suits your dates.
Moving hobby and sports gear
If the van is for hobby equipment, the same planning applies. Golf bags, camping kit, kayaks, model railway boards or band instruments all take up more room than people expect, and soft bags in particular squash into spaces that rigid cases will not. Lay out everything you intend to bring and note the longest and widest pieces, as those set the shape of load space you need. Straps, blankets and a note of how items pack together are worth sorting in advance, and speaking with whoever is receiving or storing the equipment helps everyone plan the handover. When you contact the team, describe the gear in plain terms and they can advise on which van types in the available range would handle it.
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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.