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.
Preparing a Business Delivery
If the hire is for work, sort out the delivery paperwork before you look at vehicles. List each item going out, the delivery address for every one, and a named contact at each destination who can receive goods and confirm arrival. Note any time windows the customer has given, whether a signature is required, and whether any items are fragile or have unusual handling notes attached. Ask about parking or access at each stop, including whether there is a loading bay, a gate code or a specific entrance for deliveries, and record the answers alongside the address. With a clear schedule of stops, quantities and contact numbers, you can approach the hire team with the full picture and ask which van options they would recommend for that round of jobs.
Measuring Bulky Items
Before you ask about a vehicle, measure anything oversized and write the figures down rather than relying on memory. Take height, width and depth for each piece, including protruding parts such as handles, hinges or fixed legs, and note whether anything dismantles into smaller sections. Count the total number of items, separating rigid furniture from soft bags and loose boxes, since the categories behave differently in a load space. If a piece came from a flat-pack range, check whether the original dimensions are printed on a label, which can be quicker than measuring a finished item. Once you have the numbers, pass them to the hire team with your dates and ask which vehicle groups they would suggest, flagging any item you are unsure about so they can advise.
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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.