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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
A weekend of sailing, cycling or model railway shows often comes down to what will actually travel in the van. Start by listing the awkward pieces: a tandem, a folded dinghy trolley, a stack of display boards or a large toolbox with drawers. Record each one's length, height and any protruding parts, then note whether it travels in a case, on a roof rack or loose. If a friend is joining with their own gear, ask them for the same details before you enquire. With that information you can discuss whether a small van covers the run or whether a Transit or Luton body is the more sensible match. Questions worth raising include where you would collect the vehicle, and whether the return time can be moved if the event runs long. Nothing needs deciding until the details are on paper.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Whether the job is a house move or a trade delivery, a written inventory turns a vague request into something the team can quote against. Go room by room, or pallet by pallet, and note every item with its rough size and any fragile features. Photographs help if you want to describe a wardrobe or a workbench without guessing at numbers. Once the list exists, total the volume as best you can and flag the pieces that could make access difficult at either end. Ask the hire team which van size suits that inventory, how many trips you should plan between the two addresses, and what the collection arrangements would be on the day. It is also sensible to record the recipient's name and phone number, plus any time window they have given, so the whole job is written down before you commit to dates.
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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.