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.
One trip or several: weighing it up
Begin by deciding whether everything goes in a single run or across several. Sketch the full load first: every item you plan to carry, its rough dimensions, and whether any piece belongs to a storage unit, a customer or a family member. A single trip may call for a larger option such as a Luton, while repeated runs might suit a small van or a Transit spread over the hire dates. Note the access arrangements at each end, including who to phone on arrival, since a split plan usually means more doors to coordinate. If some items could wait a week, mark them as optional. Sharing that breakdown when you enquire lets the team talk through which layout of trips and vehicles matches what you have listed.
Moving hobby equipment by van
Hobby gear often shapes the van choice more than household goods do, because sizes vary so widely. List each piece, from canoes and bicycles to model railways, band equipment or market stall kits, and measure the longest and widest points rather than estimating. Fold-down or dismantlable items deserve a note too, along with whether you can take them apart before the hire dates. If some equipment belongs to a club or a friend, record whose number to call if collection plans change. Think about the route order as well: which address receives which items, and who signs for them. Asking which van types have room for your measured list, and how access arrangements at each stop should be described, turns a vague request into a proper quote.
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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.