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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Moving Hobby Equipment by Van
Begin with a list of the equipment itself. If the job involves moving hobby gear such as model railway boards, pottery kilns, cycling kit or woodworking machinery, write down each item with its dimensions and an approximate weight, and note whether it dismantles for transport. Record any fragile or awkwardly shaped pieces separately so you can flag them when you enquire. Ask the team whether the van options available suit equipment of your sizes, and whether a crew van might make sense if a helper is coming along. Confirm the hire dates include enough time for both ends of the move, and note the access arrangements at each address. Presenting the equipment list in full helps the team match the job to the right vehicle.
Measuring Furniture and Bulky Items
Before choosing a van size, measure everything large that is travelling. For each sofa, wardrobe, mattress, dining table or appliance, note the height, width and depth, and mark the longest diagonal if an item is an awkward shape. Count the boxes and record whether any are particularly heavy or fragile. If pieces have removable parts, such as legs, mirrors or shelves, decide whether you plan to take them off and adjust your figures accordingly. When you contact the team, share these measurements and ask which van categories fit your list, mentioning the Luton or dropside if your items suggest them. Also state the access arrangements at both addresses. A written set of dimensions turns a vague enquiry into one the team can answer precisely.
Explore other van hire areas
What to confirm on the phone
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.