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.
Listing your boxes before the van
Begin with a written list of what you are moving: how many boxes, which items are bulky, and which of them are awkward shapes. That list does more than anything else to guide the conversation about vehicle size, because the team can only suggest a suitable van if they know what the load looks like. Note the order you plan to load in as well, since items needed first at the other end should be discussed with whoever is receiving them. If a friend is helping at the destination, agree with them in advance where the van will stand and when you expect to arrive. Sharing these details when you enquire keeps the whole job organised.
Setting up a business delivery run
For commercial work, start by writing down the delivery schedule: the addresses on the route, the time windows for each stop, and the dates involved. This lets the team talk through whether a small van, Transit or crew van suits the volume of goods you are carrying. Communicate with each recipient about where goods should be left and whether anyone will be present to receive them, since that shapes how long each stop takes. If some deliveries involve large or heavy items, describe them when you enquire so any unloading questions can be raised with the destination contact. A clear run sheet for the day helps everything run to plan.
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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.