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.
Measuring bulky items first
Choosing between van sizes usually starts with the awkward pieces rather than the easy ones. Before requesting a vehicle, measure the largest items you plan to move, noting height as well as length and width, since tall wardrobes and fridges often decide the size you need. Write each measurement down rather than estimating, because a few centimetres can change which vehicle group fits your load. Remember to account for anything that cannot be tilted or laid on its side, such as some appliances and framed glass. Share these figures with the team when you enquire and they can advise on the right van for the job. If an item seems borderline, describing its shape helps as much as quoting numbers, since bulky but light pieces behave differently to compact heavy ones.
Coordinating helpers on the day
A van booked for a few hours works best when everyone involved knows their role in advance. If friends or colleagues are helping, agree a start time and a rough finish time so nobody is left waiting, and check they can stay for the whole trip if the unload is some distance away. Ask whoever is receiving the items to be contactable on the day, since questions about where things go often come up once the van arrives. Where helpers are only free for part of the day, plan the heaviest work for the window when the most hands are available. It also helps to let the team know how many people will travel in the van, as this can influence which vehicle suits your booking.
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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.