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.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
Start by writing an inventory of everything you plan to carry. List each item, from furniture and appliances to boxes, tools and loose equipment, and note the approximate dimensions of the larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches. Record how many boxes or bags you expect and whether any item is an awkward shape, like a ladder or a rolled carpet. If goods are going to more than one address, group the list by destination and note the recipient's name and phone number at each stop. This record helps you discuss the job with the team and gives you a reference if quantities change before the hire. Questions you might ask when requesting a quote include which van types suit your listed items, whether a crew van is needed for extra passengers, and whether the availability of a particular option matches your intended dates.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Before settling on a vehicle, gather the measurements that matter. Note the height, width and depth of the biggest items on your list, and record any packaging that adds to their size. If furniture can be dismantled, note which parts come apart and how the pieces then measure, since this affects the overall picture you describe to the team. Separately, record the entrance details at both ends of the journey: gate widths, door openings, corridor turns and any lift dimensions if items must pass through a building. Where a recipient will accept the goods, note their contact details so you can confirm access arrangements with them directly, as those questions sit with the site rather than the hire provider. You may want to ask whether the dimensions you have noted point towards a small van, Transit, Luton or dropside, and whether your dates align with what is available.
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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.