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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Measuring bulky items before you book
The first practical step for most hirers is deciding which items actually need measuring. Anything with an awkward shape, such as a sofa, a wardrobe or a dining table, deserves a tape measure before you contact the team. Record the height, width and depth of each large piece, and note whether legs, handles or arms can be removed, since that changes the figures worth quoting. Take measurements at the widest point rather than the narrowest, and write them down immediately so nothing gets rounded up from memory later. If several bulky items are travelling together, list them side by side on paper. These numbers allow you to ask the team specific questions about van options, and they remain useful if you later add or remove items from the plan before the hire date arrives.
Weighing up one trip against several
Another decision worth thinking through is whether everything needs to travel together. If some items are wanted urgently and others can wait, a split might suit your schedule better than a single outing, so note which belongings fall into each category. Consider who needs to be present for each part, whether that is a seller handing over furniture or a friend receiving boxes, and record their availability. Write down the addresses involved and the access arrangements at each, since these details feed into the vehicle discussion. You can then ask the team how different date combinations work with the van options available, and whether your proposed split changes anything about the booking. Keeping these notes together makes it easier to revise the plan if timings or destinations move.
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Things to check 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.