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.
Sketching Out an Unloading Order
If you are moving a flat's worth of furniture to a storage unit, it is worth deciding the sequence of drops before the van is even booked. Rather than thinking about how items are placed, focus on what information to record: a numbered list of everything travelling, with each piece marked for a particular room, unit or person. Note the approximate dimensions of larger items, such as a wardrobe or sofa, and add a photograph if a shape is hard to describe. If the plan involves more than one stop, write down the address and a contact name and number for each, since you may need to ring ahead. Questions about access, such as where a vehicle can pull in or when a unit opens, belong with the site you are visiting, so note who to ask. This list can be shared with the hire team when enquiring.
Arranging Helpers for the Day
Another planning task is confirming who will assist on moving day, and this works best when agreed in writing rather than assumed. List the people you have asked, their phone numbers, and the times each has said they can attend, since helpers often arrive at different points. Note which tasks each person has agreed to take on, such as meeting you at the storage unit or looking after items destined for a family member, and record a contact for anyone receiving furniture on your behalf. If a helper might drop out, decide in advance who you would ask next and keep their number handy. You might also note the hire dates clearly so everyone knows when the van is available, and flag any questions you still want to put to the hire team, such as which vehicle groups suit your list.
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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.