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.
Planning the unloading order
If you are delivering to more than one address, work out the drop sequence before loading, since the last item off should be the first thing you need. Sketch the order on paper, noting which boxes or pieces belong to each stop, and share it with anyone helping so the plan survives the day. It also pays to separate items by destination room when packing, labelling each one clearly rather than relying on memory. Speak with the person receiving the goods about where they want things placed, since decisions made at the door slow everything down. A short conversation about room allocation before you arrive keeps unloading straightforward and means nothing gets left in the wrong place.
Keeping a load inventory
A written list of everything going into the van turns a busy day into a checkable job. Note each item as it is loaded, from furniture to small boxes, and keep the list somewhere reachable rather than buried in a pocket. When you unload, tick items off so nothing travels back with the van unnoticed. This is especially useful when a move spans several trips or involves items belonging to different people. Photographing fragile or valuable pieces before they are wrapped gives you a record of their condition, which can settle any questions later. Send a copy of the inventory to whoever is receiving the delivery, so they know what to expect when the van pulls up.
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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.