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.
Write down everything going in the van
The single most useful thing you can do before hiring a van is list every item you plan to carry. Note the largest pieces first, including furniture, appliances or materials, then add the boxes and smaller goods around them. Where an item is unusually shaped or heavy, describe it when you enquire so the team can suggest which van type suits the load. Keep the list somewhere you can update it, because moves and jobs tend to grow between the first plan and the actual day. If items are heading to different addresses, mark which destination each belongs to so nothing travels to the wrong place. An inventory also helps you check that everything arrived once the van is empty. A few minutes with a notebook now saves a lot of head-scratching later in the process.
Moving boxes and packed belongings
If your belongings are already boxed, spend a moment organising them before the van arrives. Label each box with its destination room and a short note of the contents, which helps whoever receives items at the far end direct them to the right place. Group boxes by room or by priority so the first items you need are easy to identify. Tell the team roughly how many boxes you have and their general size when you make your enquiry, as this shapes the advice on a suitable van. Ask the person at the destination about access and where items should be placed, and pass on anything they tell you. If some boxes hold fragile things, keep those separate and mention them in your description. Clear labelling and a quick conversation with the recipient keep the day moving.
Explore other van hire areas
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.