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.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Will that wardrobe actually pass through the door? Measuring before you book turns guesswork into a clear record. Note the height, width and depth of each large item once packed or dismantled, then measure the entrances, corridors and lifts involved at both ends of the journey if you can. Keep those figures together with your list of goods, since the team will ask what you need to carry when matching you to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. If a piece cannot be taken apart, write that down too. Where you cannot measure a destination yourself, the site's own contact is the right person to ask about door widths and access routes. Having the numbers ready also makes your quote request quicker to answer.
Transporting hobby equipment in a van
Hobby gear often comes in odd shapes, from folded marquees to instrument cases, so a written inventory is the best starting point. List every item, record its packed dimensions and flag anything longer or bulkier than a standard box. Decide the hire dates, whether the equipment is going one way or making a return trip, and who will receive it at the destination if you are not delivering it yourself. If the kit belongs to a group or a friend, agree beforehand who holds responsibility for it while it is in your care. When you contact the team, describe the load honestly in terms of size and quantity, and ask which van options are available for your dates. Any questions about access at the receiving site should go to the contact there.
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.