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.
Listing what needs to move
Before anything else, write down every boxed item that has to travel. Go room by room and note the approximate number of boxes, their general size and anything that will not fit a standard carton, such as rolled carpets or flat-pack furniture still in packaging. This list does two jobs: it clarifies the scale of the task for you, and it gives the team something concrete to work from when you enquire. Mark which boxes are needed first at the destination, since that affects the order they should be loaded. If some items are heading to different addresses, separate them on the list. A clear inventory is far more useful than a rough guess.
One trip or several short runs
How many journeys are you prepared to make? That single question shapes the whole hire. A larger van taking everything in one go suits people who want the move finished in a day, while a smaller vehicle used for two or three runs can work if the distance is short and time is not pressing. Consider when you can access both properties, and ask the person receiving your belongings about their availability for unloading. Traffic at your chosen time of day may also influence the arithmetic. Talk the options through with the team when you enquire, describing your items and dates, so they can suggest which approach and vehicle pairing suits 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.