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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Breaking a house move into stages
What actually needs to move? Write down the main items room by room, from wardrobes and sofas down to boxes and loose belongings. That list tells you roughly how much van space the job involves and whether it fits into one day or several trips. Think about which rooms you want emptied first, since loading in a sensible order saves time at the other end. Tell the person receiving the delivery what is coming and when, so they can prepare space at the destination. If anything is awkwardly shaped or particularly large, describe it when you enquire.
Keeping a running load inventory
A simple written inventory turns a van job from guesswork into a checklist. Note each item as it goes into the vehicle and tick it off as it comes out, which makes it obvious if something has been left behind. This is especially useful for storage runs, where belongings may sit unseen for weeks, and for business deliveries with multiple drop-offs. Keep the list somewhere easy to reach during the journey rather than buried in a pocket. Share a copy with whoever is receiving the goods so they know what to expect on arrival. Keep the recipient's contact details beside your item list, making it straightforward to discuss any change in what you intend to carry.
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Last checks 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.