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.
Record Your Boxes Before You Call
Begin with a written list of every box and item you plan to move. Number the boxes if that helps, and note roughly what each contains along with its dimensions, since a stack of small cartons presents a different picture from a few large ones. Mark any fragile pieces separately and count the total so you can quote a figure rather than a guess. Alongside the inventory, note your hire dates, whether there is any flexibility on them, and the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking or entry notes you already know. When you ring for a quote, you can read through the list, ask which van types suit the volume described, and check what remains available on your chosen days before committing to anything.
Keep a Load Inventory for Each Trip
If your move or delivery involves more than one journey, consider keeping a separate inventory per trip. Write down which boxes go in which load, who is expecting each delivery, and a contact number for the recipient if items are heading somewhere other than your own address. Note anything that needs particular care or attention during handling, and flag any item whose size you are unsure about so the team can advise on the van options. Questions that remain open at this stage include whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van fits your plan, and how the availability of each compares across your dates. A tidy inventory also gives you a record to check against when everything has been delivered.
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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.