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.
Plan your boxed belongings in advance
Get the boxes listed before anything else. Count them room by room, note what each group contains, and flag any that need particular care, such as electronics or glassware. Record the approximate dimensions of the biggest boxes and a rough total, which helps when discussing whether a small van or a Luton is the better match. Separate anything destined for storage, charity shops or different addresses, and add a recipient name and phone number for each drop-off. Write the hire dates beside the list, along with the access arrangements at both ends. When you contact the team, that single sheet tells them what is travelling, where it is going and when, so the conversation moves quickly from description to a confirmed vehicle.
Measuring bulky items correctly
Measurements matter more than guesses. For each bulky item, take the length, width and height at its widest points, including any protruding handles, feet or packaging, and write the figures beside a description of the piece. Note whether sofas, wardrobes or appliances can be dismantled, and if they can, record the packed-down sizes as well. Photograph anything unusually shaped so the hire team can see the form, not just the numbers. Add the destination details, including a contact who can confirm access at the receiving end. With dimensions, dates and access notes together, you can ask which van option suits the load, and the team can respond with something concrete rather than asking you to estimate over the phone.
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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.