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.
Sketching the Order of Unloading
If your move finishes at a property with several rooms, a little planning about where things end up can shape the whole day. Draw a simple plan of the destination, marking which room each box or item belongs in, and label your boxes to match. Note any pieces that must reach a specific floor, and list items that are needed immediately, such as kettle, bedding or tools, so they can be identified quickly. Record the contact number for whoever will be at the destination, whether that is you, a family member or the new occupant. When you speak to the team, describe the access arrangements at both addresses, ask which van options suit your list, and check whether the hire period allows for a relaxed pace at each end rather than a tight window.
Leaving Time for Packing and Loading
Suppose your van is booked for a Saturday morning. Work out on paper how much packing remains and how long each part might take, from the garage to the kitchen cupboards. Decide what can be boxed during the week and what must wait until the final hours, and note where you will keep finished boxes so they are easy to reach. If friends are helping, agree their arrival times and assign each person an area, keeping a written note of who is doing what. Record anything that needs wrapping separately and any items travelling by car instead. When you request a quote, ask about the possibility of an earlier collection or a later return if the day runs long, and mention any deadline at the destination, such as a storage facility's closing time, that your schedule has to respect.
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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.