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.
Arranging help on moving day
Who is actually going to be there when the van arrives? Working that out in advance is one of the most useful parts of moving-day preparation. Confirm which friends or family members can help, at what times, and whether anyone is only free for part of the day. If helpers are meeting you at the destination rather than the pickup point, share the address and an approximate schedule with each of them. Agreeing who is responsible for keys, who directs the unloading and who locks up avoids confusion later. When you enquire, mentioning the number of people involved helps the team understand the scale of the job you are describing.
Measuring doorways and bulky items
Before settling on a van, take a few minutes to measure the awkward things. Note the height, width and depth of the largest furniture pieces, and check the dimensions of any doorways, corridors, stairwells or lifts they will need to pass through at both ends of the journey. If something can be dismantled, deciding that early changes what you need to carry. It is also worth checking whether items will travel in one trip or several, as that shapes your timings. Passing these measurements on when you enquire means the team can discuss which vehicle options suit the job, and any access questions can be raised with the property contacts directly.
Explore other van hire areas
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.