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.
Plan the unloading order
If you arrive at the destination with the items needed first buried at the back, the whole unload takes longer than it should. Think through the sequence before packing begins: goods destined for the furthest room or the top floor generally travel in first, while anything required immediately stays near the doors. Tell the team roughly what the load consists of when you enquire, as the mix of large furniture and smaller boxes influences which van makes sense. It is also worth agreeing with the recipient which items go where, so the van can be emptied in a logical order rather than in whatever sequence things come to hand. A few minutes spent on this order pays for itself on the day.
Allow time for packing and loading
Loading a van almost always takes longer than first estimated, particularly with furniture that needs wrapping or boxes gathered from several rooms. When choosing your hire period, build in generous time for both ends of the journey rather than planning around the drive alone. If packing is still in progress when the hire starts, the vehicle can sit unused for hours you are paying for, so it is often better to have everything boxed and labelled in advance. Speak with the recipient about their availability too, since waiting outside an unattended address eats into the schedule quickly. Sharing your intended timings with the team when you enquire lets them advise on a hire length that fits the realistic shape of the day.
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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.