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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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 What Goes Where
If you're moving a mix of boxes and furniture, sketching a simple list of what goes to each address can shape your whole hire. Write down each item, its rough size and which room or site it belongs to, then note any pieces that could be dismantled before the van arrives. Record the addresses in the order you plan to visit them, along with a contact name and number for each stop, since questions about gates, parking or opening hours sit with those contacts rather than the hire team. If some items are awkwardly shaped, note their longest dimension and any parts that stick out. Sharing this list when you ask for a quote gives the team a clearer picture of the job, and any points you're still unsure about, such as whether one visit covers everything, can stay open until you've spoken.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Some jobs suit a single run with a larger van, while others work out as several shorter visits, and the choice is yours to organise before booking. If you're considering splitting the work, note how many items each visit would involve and whether any address is only open at certain times. Where one trip appeals, count the total pieces, estimate their dimensions and check whether anything would need special handling at either end. Record the dates you have available, since spreading visits across two days changes what you ask for. It's also worth listing what could be left behind or delivered later if space runs short. Ask the team how hire periods work for multi-day jobs and confirm which vehicle options they can offer for your dates, keeping any unresolved questions written down until you have answers.
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Things to check 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.