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.
Start with the details worth writing down
Before you request a quote, it helps to build a short written list covering everything the job involves. Note the hire dates, including whether you might need the van for part of a day or across several, and set out what you plan to carry in as much detail as you can. If furniture is involved, record each piece's approximate dimensions along with an estimate of how many boxes, bags or loose items will travel. Where a collection address or delivery point features narrow access, a shared driveway or restricted parking, describe those arrangements too. If somebody will meet you at either end to hand over or receive goods, add their name and a contact number so any question on the day can be resolved quickly without leaving you guessing.
Allowing sensible time for packing and loading
Time planning is another area where a little preparation goes a long way. Think honestly about how long packing might take, and consider whether spreading it over two evenings rather than one would leave you calmer on collection day. If you are moving boxed belongings, decide well in advance which items go into each room's pile and label the boxes accordingly, since this can make unpacking far more straightforward. You might also plan an order of work for the day itself: when the van will be collected, when each address needs to be visited and roughly how long you expect to spend at each stop. Where a delay is possible, perhaps because a seller is fetching an item from storage, build a margin into your schedule rather than cutting it fine.
Explore other van hire areas
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.