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.
Setting aside time for packing and loading
The single most useful figure to note down is how long you expect loading and unloading to take, because it shapes the whole hire period. Many people book a van for the driving time alone and forget that carrying items down a close, dismantling furniture or waiting for a storage unit to open all add hours. Work out when you will start packing, when the van needs to be on the driveway and when it must be returned. If helpers are joining you, agree their arrival times in advance so nobody is waiting around. A realistic schedule keeps the day calmer and avoids a rushed final hour.
Weighing one trip against several
Is the job genuinely a single load, or could it split into two shorter runs? Counting your items and estimating their combined bulk gives you a fair idea before you enquire. A smaller van used twice may suit a modest flat clearance, while a full house move with large furniture usually points towards a bigger vehicle in one go. Consider the distance too, since repeated runs across a long stretch quickly eat into your day. Whichever way you lean, explain the job in those terms when you contact the team, because knowing the load size and the trip count helps them suggest the right van for the work.
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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.