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.
Will your items actually fit through?
The quickest way to answer this is to measure everything before you book. Take a tape measure to the largest pieces you plan to move, noting height, width and depth, and write the figures against each item on a list. Sofas, wardrobes and mattresses are the usual suspects, but rolled rugs, dismantled shelving and boxed appliances deserve the same attention. It is also worth checking the entrances involved: measure doorways, hallways and any turns on staircases at both the collection address and the delivery address, since a piece that fits the van may still struggle with a narrow front door. If you discover a tight spot, you can decide in advance whether a item can be taken apart, and mention the measurements when you request a quote.
Planning around boxed belongings
If most of your load consists of boxes, a different sort of preparation applies. Count how many you expect to have by collection day and note their approximate sizes, since a mixture of small book boxes and large bulky ones tells the team more than a single total would. Think about which boxes you will need first at the other end, perhaps a kettle box or an overnight bag, and mark these clearly so they can be identified later. Where boxes contain fragile items, labelling them as such on several sides helps everyone involved treat them with care. You might also list any unboxed items, such as suitcases or loose pictures, so nothing is forgotten when you tally up the job.
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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.