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 hobby equipment before you book
Decide first whether every piece of hobby equipment needs to travel on the same date, since splitting a load across two hires might suit a kit that is only used at weekends. Note each item's dimensions, from folded tables to boxed models, and count the bags of accessories that go with them. If any gear is unusually long or awkwardly shaped, record that measurement separately rather than estimating. Think about the access arrangements at both ends, including gate widths and where the van would stand. When you contact the team, share the full list, the dates and any collection deadline, then ask which vehicle class they would suggest and whether anything on your list raises questions they need answered before confirming.
Preparing a household move checklist
If a house move is on the horizon, begin by walking through each room and writing down what will actually travel, room by room. Note the number of boxes you expect, the pieces of furniture that cannot be dismantled, and any appliances with fixed dimensions worth recording. Settle your preferred dates early and consider whether one longer hire or two shorter ones fits the schedule better. Where furniture is being collected from another address, keep that seller's contact details to hand and note any time window they have given. Ask the team about the difference between a Luton and a crew van for your list, and check what happens if your move date shifts. Leaving these questions open until you have a full inventory usually produces a clearer quote.
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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.