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.
Write down every item
The starting point is a load list. Before contacting anyone about a van, take a walk through the rooms or the storage area and record each item you intend to move, from the largest wardrobe down to boxes of paperwork. Beside each entry, note roughly how many boxes or pieces are involved, and mark anything with unusual dimensions, such as a long mirror or a wide desk. A list built this way gives you a clear record of the whole job, and it becomes the reference you use when describing what needs carrying. Items you are still deciding about can be given a question mark rather than left off, since a borderline entry is easier to resolve than a forgotten one. This inventory is yours to refine before the hire dates are confirmed.
Plan the timing around packing
Once the load list exists, attention can turn to the calendar. Think about how many days sit between now and the collection date, and where the packing work fits within them. Some people prefer to spread the task across several evenings; others set aside one long session. Either way, noting your intended schedule on paper lets you see whether the plan is realistic or needs adjusting. Record the hire dates alongside, plus the times helpers have confirmed, and the contact details for anyone at the destination end. If certain items still need dismantling or wrapping, listing them separately keeps them visible. Whatever remains uncertain can be raised as a question when you discuss the job with the 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.