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.
Recording Details for Boxed Belongings
Start by writing down what will actually travel. A written inventory of boxed belongings, grouped room by room, gives you a clear record to work from when discussing van options. Note the approximate number of boxes, their rough dimensions and any unusually shaped items alongside them. If some boxes belong to different destinations, mark which ones go where so nothing gets mixed up on the day. Recording fragile items separately helps you keep track of them, and a note of anything you plan to leave behind can be just as useful. This list can accompany your quote request, and any gaps in it are worth filling before hire dates are fixed, since a clear record shapes the conversation about vehicle choice.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends or colleagues are joining you, their details belong on the same page as your hire plans. Note each helper's name, mobile number and the time they have agreed to attend, then confirm those times a day or two beforehand. Record who has keys to each property involved, who is responsible for paperwork at the storage unit or collection point, and who will act as the contact if plans shift. Where helpers are arriving separately, list the addresses they should head to and the order of the day's stops. Sharing the itinerary with everyone prevents crossed wires, and any questions about access at the destinations themselves should go to the people based there rather than to the hire team.
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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.