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 inventory
Begin with a written list of everything going into the van, room by room or job by job. Count the boxes, name the large furniture, and note anything fragile, long or awkwardly shaped. An inventory does more than guide the hire conversation; it also tells you whether one trip is realistic or several are needed. Keep the list somewhere you can update it, because moves tend to grow between the first plan and the actual day. When you contact the team, share the inventory summary rather than a vague sense of a big load. A clear description of the items lets them talk through the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside and crew van options in relation to what you actually have.
Allowing more time than you expect
Packing and loading almost always take longer than the first estimate, so build slack into your day from the outset. If you assume a couple of hours for wrapping, dismantling and carrying, you will thank yourself when the schedule still holds by lunchtime. Plan the order of the day too: when the van is being collected, when helpers arrive and when the recipient expects you at the far end. Speak to whoever is receiving the items about their timing, and agree a rough arrival window so nobody is left waiting. Passing your intended schedule to the hire team when you enquire helps them fit the hire period to the real length of 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.