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.
Measuring awkward loads in advance
The first practical step for most hirers is deciding which items actually need to travel, and then measuring the ones that could prove awkward. Note the height, width and depth of each large piece, including any protruding parts such as handles, feet or detachable legs, and record whether items can be partially dismantled before the journey. A tape measure and a simple written list are usually enough. Where a piece will only fit through a doorway at an angle, that observation is worth capturing too, since the dimensions you quote may differ from the manufacturer's figures. Send the finished measurements with your enquiry so the team can consider which vehicle option matches the load, and note any questions you still have about particular items so nothing is left ambiguous.
Maintaining a running load list
Alongside measurements, keep a single inventory of everything earmarked for the trip, updated as plans develop. Record each item, its rough size, any fragility worth flagging, and its destination if goods are going to more than one address. For a storage run, note the unit number and the site's opening hours; for a furniture collection, add the seller's phone number and the agreed collection window. If recipients must be present to accept deliveries, list their contact details alongside the relevant entries. This list can be shared with the team when you request a quote, which helps them match the job to a suitable van, and it doubles as a reference you can work through on the day. Review it once more before the hire begins to catch late additions.
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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.