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.
One Trip or Several: What to Record
Deciding between a single larger van and several runs in a smaller one usually comes down to what you are comfortable organising. Start by listing every item you plan to carry, with approximate dimensions for the biggest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or stacked boxes. If the list is long, note which items could travel on a second day without causing problems. When you ask about the job, share the inventory and your dates, and the team can talk through the van types on offer and what they would need to know about the load. Mention any interest in a dropside or crew van if the load includes awkward shapes or extra passengers. The choice stays yours; the team simply needs your inventory and dates to comment sensibly.
Coordinating Helpers Around Your Booking
If friends or family are helping with the job, their availability shapes the booking as much as the load does. Note who has confirmed, which days each person can attend, and whether any helper needs to travel in the van with you, since crew van seating may be relevant. Record a contact number for each person so changes can be passed on quickly, and agree a fallback if someone drops out. When you request a quote, mention the number of people involved and the hours you expect the job to take. Questions about collection times, access arrangements at each address and the return of the vehicle can all be raised together, so the whole plan sits in one place.
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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.