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.
Details worth writing down first
Start by listing everything that will travel in the van, because that list answers most of the questions a hire team will ask. For each item, note its approximate dimensions, especially for furniture, appliances or anything awkwardly shaped, and count how many boxes you expect to fill. Record the hire dates, including whether you might need the van for an extra day, and the addresses involved in the job. If goods are going to a storage unit or a recipient's address, write down that contact's name and telephone number so arrangements can be confirmed on the day. Note any access details you already know, such as parking restrictions or gate widths, and flag anything uncertain. This written summary becomes the basis of your enquiry and helps the team suggest the right van size.
Weighing one trip against several
How many journeys does your plan actually involve? Before deciding, it helps to sketch two versions of the day. In the first, everything travels together on a single outing; in the second, the load is split across two or more shorter runs. Write down what would go in each batch and how far apart the pick-up and drop-off points sit, since distance influences how many runs are realistic within your hire window. Consider whether any items are needed urgently at the destination, which might argue for taking them first, and whether a recipient will be available to receive each delivery. Neither approach suits every job, so keep your notes flexible and raise both options when you ask for a quote, along with your dates and item dimensions.
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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.