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
Decide early whether you would rather move everything in a single run or spread the job across several shorter trips. A one-off journey saves time at the far end but may call for a larger vehicle, while multiple trips can work well when the distance is short and the schedule is relaxed. Consider how many hours you can realistically give the job, the value of finishing in one day, and how many people are available to help at each end. Once you have weighed this up, tell the team your preference along with the dates and access details. They can then suggest which vehicle group fits the approach you have chosen, and confirm availability where possible.
Thinking through the unloading order
Spend a few minutes deciding the order in which items will come out of the van at the destination. If certain boxes or furniture are needed first, plan for them to be reachable without unpacking everything else, and let the person receiving the goods know what is coming. Ask the recipient where items should be placed and whether there is a suitable spot for the van to stop, since they know the site better than anyone. Agreeing this in advance avoids confusion on arrival and keeps the handover quick. Mentioning any access constraints at either address when you enquire also helps the team match the job to a suitable van.
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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.