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.
Starting with an inventory list
The single most useful thing you can prepare is a written list of everything going into the van. Note each item with a rough size, and mark the ones that are heavy, fragile or awkward in shape. This list does two jobs: it lets the hire team consider which van suits the load, and it gives you a checklist on both ends of the journey so nothing gets left behind. Group items by destination if the load is being split between addresses. Include the awkward things people forget, such as loft boxes, garden tools or the contents of a shed. An inventory built over several days is far more complete than one written the night before.
Setting aside enough time
Packing a van always takes longer than the estimate, especially for a whole household. When planning your dates, treat loading as its own block of time rather than something squeezed before departure. Consider spreading a larger move across two hire days if the volume looks close to filling the van twice over. Think about who is helping on the day and when they are available, since an extra pair of hands changes the pace considerably. Build in time for dismantling furniture, wrapping items and the inevitable pause to reconsider what fits where. Mention your rough timescale to the team, and they can talk through options for the duration you need. Rushed loading is where things get damaged or forgotten.
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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.