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.
Carrying hobby equipment by van
Choosing between van sizes often comes down to the shape of what you are moving rather than its weight. If you are taking hobby equipment to a club, show or event, note the longest items first, since poles, boards and cases tend to dictate the load space you need. Speak with whoever receives the goods at the far end about where the van can stop and how the items should be handed over. It also helps to tell the team what you are carrying when you enquire, as they can suggest which vehicle group suits awkward shapes. Where equipment comes in protective cases, mention these too, because packed dimensions differ from the bare item.
Setting aside time for packing
A realistic schedule makes any van job calmer, so decide early how long packing and loading will take on your dates. Work backwards from when the van is needed at the destination and give yourself a buffer for the final box check. Gather packing materials in advance and stage everything near the door so loading runs in one pass rather than several. If someone is helping you, agree a start time and a rough order so both of you know what happens first. Mention your timing to the team when arranging the hire, since the length of the rental can usually be shaped around the job rather than the other way round.
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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.