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.
Getting your helpers lined up early
Will friends or colleagues be helping on the day? Answer that first, because everything else follows from it. Ask each helper which hours they can commit to, and write the answers down alongside your hire dates so you can spot any clashes before booking. Note who has their own transport, who can bring straps or blankets, and who is happy to make multiple runs if that becomes necessary. Collect everyone's mobile numbers and nominate one person as the point of contact for any changes. If somebody may drop out, have a backup name ready. Sharing the plan with the team when you request a quote means the vehicle choice, whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, can be discussed with the full picture in view.
Recording where each item belongs
Rather than deciding anything on the doorstep, prepare a simple list of what is going where. Label each item or box with its destination room, the floor it belongs on, and the name of the person receiving it. Note the dimensions of the largest pieces, such as wardrobes or sofas, since the team will ask about sizes when matching your job to a vehicle. If items are destined for a storage unit, record the unit number and the site's opening hours. For deliveries to customers, keep each recipient's phone number with the corresponding item so nobody is left waiting uncontacted. Questions worth asking in your quote request include whether access at each address suits a larger van and what happens if a drop-off runs past the agreed time.
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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.