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.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
The first decision worth settling is what you will actually put in the van. Walk through the house and note the largest items, taking measurements of height, width and depth rather than estimating by eye. A wardrobe, a sofa or a fridge can set the tone for the whole job, so these figures matter more than the pile of boxes around them. Share the measurements when you contact the team, since they can then talk through which vehicle groups could take those items. It also helps to mention anything that comes apart, as a dismantled item may change the picture considerably. If you are unsure how to describe a shape, a photo taken on your phone can be attached to your enquiry.
Weighing one trip against several
Another decision that shapes the booking is running the job in a single outing or spreading it over a few shorter runs. If the distance is short and the items are few, multiple trips in a smaller van can work out perfectly well and keep the day flexible. If you are covering a longer distance or working to a collection window, one loaded journey usually makes more sense. Think about how many hours you can realistically give the job, and who will be there to help at each end. Tell the team which approach you prefer and they can point you towards the right size of vehicle for it. Mentioning any deadlines, such as a keys handover, helps them plan the booking with you.
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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.