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.
Planning the unloading order in advance
If the last item to come off the van is a fridge, it needs to go on first, and working that sequence out before loading day keeps everything simple. Sketch a rough order on paper, grouping items by the room or destination they belong to. Anyone receiving furniture partway through the route should be asked what they are expecting and when, so the plan reflects their arrangements too. Where several stops are involved, list them clearly and check that each recipient will be there. Sharing this outline with the team helps them judge whether the trip fits comfortably into the time you have set aside. A clear order also shows quickly if the job needs more than one run.
Giving packing and loading enough time
Packing and loading almost always take longer than expected, so build in generous time at both ends of the hire. Gather boxes, tape, blankets and tools a day or two ahead rather than on the morning itself, and dismantle anything that comes apart in good time. If friends are helping, agree a start hour with them in advance and allow a buffer for late arrivals. It can be worth setting a cutoff point where anything not packed gets left behind or moved another day. When you speak to the team about dates, mention how long you expect loading to take, as this affects the length of hire that makes sense. Realistic timing turns a rushed day into a manageable one.
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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.