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.
Building a Load Inventory
What exactly needs to travel in the van? Open a list and record each item or category, from furniture and appliances to boxed goods and loose equipment, then add a count beside every line so the totals are clear at a glance. Mark anything fragile, anything that can be dismantled before the trip, and anything still undecided, since those notes often matter when the team matches the job to a vehicle. If the load serves a move, a trade job, a furniture collection, a storage run or a business delivery, say so on the list, because the purpose helps frame the access arrangements too. Keep the inventory where you can update it as plans settle, and bring the final version with you when you discuss the hire dates, so the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van question can be answered with real figures rather than guesses.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Which measurements should you take before calling for a quote? Note the height, width and depth of the largest pieces on your inventory, and write each set of figures next to the item it belongs to, so nothing is forgotten mid-conversation. Record whether any item separates into parts, and how the sizes compare once it is taken down. Then turn to access: list the arrangements at both the pickup point and the destination, including gate widths, corridor turns, lift dimensions and any parking constraints the destination contact has described. Where the destination is managed by someone else, ask that contact directly about the tightest gap and any restrictions on arrival times. Supplying these dimensions and access notes together with your hire dates helps the team match the job to the right van, and highlights early any item that may need its own arrangement.
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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.