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.
Which measurements should you note down?
Will it fit through the door? That question is worth answering before you book, and a tape measure settles it. Note the height, width and depth of each large item, then compare those figures with the doorway, corridor and lift dimensions at both ends of the journey. Record the measurements in the same list you send with your quote request, alongside the hire dates and the van type you are considering. If anything is awkward — a sofa with tall arms, a wardrobe that cannot be laid flat, a piano — flag it separately so the team can factor it into their advice. Where an entrance looks tight, ask the destination contact about alternative access. Keeping these figures written down avoids guesswork later.
What should your delivery notes include?
Which items will you need first once you arrive? Writing a short answer to that question can shape your whole moving day. List every item with a brief description and the room or floor it is destined for, then number the entries so nothing gets overlooked. If a business delivery is involved, add the recipient's name, phone number and any reference they expect, plus the opening hours you have been given. Note fragile pieces and anything requiring special handling so the details travel with the job. A copy of this list can go with your quote enquiry, which gives the team a clearer picture of the workload. Anything you cannot confirm yet is worth marking as open, ready to update when plans settle.
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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.