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.
Recording the Order Items Will Be Needed
If you are moving a mixture of furniture and boxes into a new home, it helps to think ahead about where everything will end up. Before the hire, make a written list of everything going on the van, then mark which pieces belong in which room and which you will need first, such as a bed or kettle. Note the dimensions of the largest items and any parts that dismantle, since this information helps the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Record the access arrangements at both addresses, including where the van can stand while items are carried in. Keep the list with you on the day so whoever is helping knows what to expect at each stage.
Measuring Entrances and Bulky Items
Before settling on a vehicle, it is worth checking that your largest pieces will pass through the spaces they need to. Measure the height, width and depth of items such as wardrobes, sofas and appliances, and note whether they come apart into smaller sections. Then measure the doorways, hallways and stair turns at both the collection point and the destination, recording the narrowest gap on each route. If a garden gate, lift or shared corridor is involved, note its dimensions too, and keep a contact number for whoever manages access at the destination so you can confirm arrangements directly. Presenting these measurements when you enquire, alongside your hire dates, gives the team a clear picture of the job and helps them suggest the right van for the items you have listed.
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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.