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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Building a Household Moving Inventory
What does a useful moving inventory look like? Start room by room: list the furniture, boxes and awkward pieces in each, from sofas and mattresses to wardrobes and white goods, and mark anything that dismantles. Estimate a box count per room and note the largest item's dimensions so the team can consider whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available. Set your moving dates, including any overlap between properties, and record the contact details for both addresses plus anyone holding keys. If storage features in the plan, note the unit's opening hours and reference number. Keep the inventory with your quote enquiries and update it as items are added, sold or given away before the move.
Checking Item and Entrance Dimensions
Before the van is booked, measure more than the furniture. Note each large item's length, width and height, then check the access at both ends: ask the contact at each property about gate widths, tight corners, steps, lifts and any restrictions on where a van can wait. If you're collecting from a shop or seller, ask them to confirm doorway sizes and whether items are already wrapped. Write down the answers with each contact's name and number, and pass the set to the team alongside your hire dates. If anything measures oddly — a narrow stairwell, an extra-long sofa — flag it when you enquire, and keep your notes handy in case the plan changes.
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Things to check 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.