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.
Listing the Unloading Order
If the job involves stops at more than one address, consider writing the unloading sequence before the hire is arranged. Number each stop and list the items due there, along with any reference the recipient expects. Record the approximate dimensions of large pieces and note whether anything is due to go upstairs or through a narrow doorway, since these are details to confirm with the contact at each destination. You might also note which items need to come off at each stage and whether any recipient has asked for a specific delivery window. This list is for your own planning and for the questions you may want to ask the team when matching the job to a vehicle, and it can be shared with anyone helping on the day so everyone knows the running order.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Before settling on a van size, measure the items you plan to move and note the entrances they must pass through. If a sofa, wardrobe or appliance is part of the load, record its width, height and depth, and compare these with the doorways, corridors and stairwells at both ends of the journey. Where a destination is managed by someone else, such as a storage facility or a business premises, ask that contact about access arrangements, opening hours and any restrictions they apply. Note whether gates, lifts or shared entrances are involved. These measurements and answers belong on your list of information to gather; they help you describe the job accurately when discussing vehicle options, and they flag any question you still need answered before the hire dates are fixed.
Explore other van hire areas
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.