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.
Writing Down Every Item
Before anything else, note down exactly what's going in the van. A load inventory sounds like admin, but it's the single most useful thing you can bring to a hire enquiry. Go through each room or each job and list every item, marking anything that's long, tall or dismantled so you can describe it accurately. Add approximate dimensions for the larger pieces and note whether anything comes apart, since that detail matters when the team matches your load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Record the hire dates and the addresses involved, including contact details for whoever is receiving items at the far end. Keep the list with you when you ask for a quote, and use it to raise any questions still unanswered.
Carrying Hobby and Sports Gear
Moving hobby equipment brings its own set of details worth capturing in advance. Whether it's tents and camping kit, musical instruments, model railway boards or sports gear, start by measuring the bulkiest pieces and writing those dimensions down, along with anything fragile that needs describing. Count the total number of bags, cases and boxes so you can give a clear figure when you enquire. Note the dates you need the van, the address you're heading to, and a contact name and number at the venue or event if there is one. If some equipment belongs to other people, list whose is whose. Any questions about where the van can stop at the destination should go to the venue contact, not the hire team; everything else can accompany your quote request.
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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.