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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 smaller runs
Some customers weigh up making a single run with a larger van against squeezing the same job into two or three trips with a smaller one. The maths depends on the distance between the pickup and drop-off points, the hours you have available and how many people are on hand to help. If the destination is close by, repeated runs can work out fine. For a longer round trip, one consolidated load often makes better use of the day. Think through the items involved, the time each leg takes and any deadlines the recipient has set. When you contact the team, describe the job in those terms and they can talk through which vehicle option suits it best.
Putting a household move in order
A household move tends to run more smoothly when the packing is finished before the van arrives rather than during the loading. Work room by room, label each box with its destination in the new house and set aside anything fragile so it is obvious on the day. Larger furniture raises its own questions, so measure the awkward pieces and note any tight corners or narrow doorways involved. Ask whoever is receiving the items whether there is somewhere to park near the entrance and when they will be available to take deliveries. Passing those details to the team with your dates gives everyone a clear picture and helps the move stay on schedule.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.