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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Deciding Between One Trip and Several
The first decision to settle is whether everything needs to travel in a single run. Make a list of what you are carrying, noting the number of items and, for the larger pieces, their approximate dimensions. If the list looks long, consider which items genuinely belong to this job and which could wait for another day, then note which date each group would need. A split plan might involve two shorter hires instead of one long one, so write down both options with their dates and ask the team to price each. Whether one Luton covers the whole list or a Transit plus a second run works out differently is a question for the quote stage, and having the numbers ready makes that conversation straightforward.
Coordinating Helpers Around the Hire
Helpers only make a difference if everyone knows when they are needed. Start by writing down who is available on the hire date, along with a phone number for each person, and note the times they can realistically be there. If the plan involves several addresses, record which helper is expected at each one and who holds the keys to the property or the storage unit. Ask helpers to confirm the night before, and keep a single group message running so changes reach everyone at once. Decide in advance who will deal with the paperwork at the start and end of the hire, since that person needs to be present when the van is handed over. Any gaps in availability are worth spotting now rather than on the morning itself.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.