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 the van must carry
Write out an inventory of the items before you contact the hire team, as this single step answers most questions. For a house move made up of boxed belongings, note the approximate number of boxes, their general size and anything awkward such as a bicycle or vacuum cleaner. Give the rough dimensions of the largest pieces and their weight range if you know it. Mention how many trips you expect to make and how much time the van is needed for. A clear list lets the team judge the load space required and suggest the right van group. It also helps you spot gaps in your plan early.
Setting up a business delivery
For business use, the planning centres on the delivery schedule and the recipient. Gather the addresses, preferred delivery windows and any access notes for each stop, then share them with the team alongside your dates. Ask the recipient whether goods should be brought to a door, a loading area or a particular entrance, and whether anyone will be there to receive them. Confirm the dimensions of the items being sent so the vehicle matches the consignment. If the same van is needed across several days, say so when enquiring. Passing this detail on early helps the hire team fit the vehicle to the job rather than the other way round.
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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.
















