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.
Measure before you commit
Start by measuring the largest items you plan to move, including any packaging or wrapping that adds to their size, and write the figures down. Then check the measurements of the spaces involved: the doorways, corridors, stairwells and lift openings at both ends of the journey. If an item can be separated into smaller parts, note which pieces come apart and which stay whole. When you contact the team, share these dimensions alongside a description of the load so the job can be matched to a suitable van. It also helps to mention any awkward shapes or items that cannot be tipped or turned, since these affect how the load will sit. A few minutes with a tape measure prevents a lot of frustration on moving day.
Moving boxes in the right order
If your belongings are going into boxes, think through the sequence before the van arrives. Decide which boxes are needed first at the destination and which can wait, because the order they travel in affects how easily you can reach things on arrival. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, which helps whoever is receiving or unloading at the other end. Tell the recipient roughly how many boxes to expect and whether any contain fragile items, so they can plan space at the destination. Agree a rough time for arrival and ask them to keep access clear. Clear communication on both ends turns a box move from a long day into a straightforward 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.