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.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
A key decision is whether everything needs to travel at once. If you are collecting furniture or clearing a storage unit, count the items and note their dimensions before choosing between a small van, a Transit or a Luton. Some customers find a single longer day suits them; others prefer spreading the work over two shorter hires. There is no universal answer, so it helps to list what each option would involve: which items are essential for the first journey, who can help on which dates, and whether any recipient needs to be contacted about delivery times. Ask the team how the vehicle groups differ on your chosen dates, and whether availability changes if you split the job. Questions about access at a destination should go to whoever manages that site.
Organising a Household Move
For a house move, start with a written inventory of every room. Record each item's approximate dimensions, particularly for wardrobes, sofas and appliances, since these figures guide the discussion about which vehicle groups might suit the job. Mark anything fragile, and note where each piece is destined in the new home so nothing is left behind. Collect contact details for anyone receiving items at the other end, including neighbours who might need warning. Decide your moving dates early, and consider a spare day in case the schedule slips. If storage is involved, confirm opening arrangements with the facility directly. Then ask the team which vehicle groups are available, whether a crew van would serve if helpers are coming along, and what details they need from you to confirm the booking.
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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.