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.
Working Out What Goes Where
If your move involves several drop-off points, sketching a rough order before you speak to the team can clarify which van size to request. You might list each address in the sequence you expect to visit, along with the items destined for each one. Recording the number of boxes per location, plus any awkward pieces such as wardrobes or shelving units, gives a fuller picture when discussing a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. It is also worth noting whether any recipient needs advance notice of your arrival, since their contact details can be added to your plan. Questions about parking bays, gate codes or access restrictions at each destination belong with the people based there, so gather their answers directly rather than assuming arrangements.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
Should your hire cover a single day, thinking through the packing schedule beforehand helps you brief the team accurately. You could note how many hours you expect to spend filling boxes, whether helpers are joining partway through, and whether any dismantling needs completing before the van arrives. Writing an inventory as you pack, grouped by room or destination, means you can quote reliable quantities when requesting a vehicle. If some items are unusually shaped, recording their dimensions helps the team discuss which options might suit. You might also decide whether the trip allows a break between packing and travelling, which influences how early you collect. Any questions about the site you are moving from, such as lift availability, sit with that site's management.
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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.