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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
One trip or several
A common decision when hiring a van is spreading a job over several runs or clearing it in a single journey. If you are moving the contents of a flat, two trips with a smaller vehicle might suit an afternoon, whereas a full house clearance usually points towards one load with something larger. Think about fuel, your own time and how many people can help on the day. It also helps to list what you are carrying before choosing, since awkward items such as wardrobes or ladders take up space out of proportion to their number. Mention your preferred approach when you contact the team, and they can talk through which vehicle fits that plan.
Getting organised for a house move
If the job is a household move, a bit of structure saves a lot of back-and-forth. Work room by room and label boxes by destination so that unloading at the other end goes quickly. Dismantle flat-pack furniture in advance where you can, and set aside screws and fittings in a clearly marked bag. Decide in advance which items travel with you personally rather than in the van, such as documents and valuables. Tell whoever is receiving the goods what time to expect you, and ask about parking or access at the destination so there are no surprises on arrival. If anything about the load is unusual, describe it to the team when arranging the hire.
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Things to check 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.