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.
Picking a suitable van
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 decision worth making is whether to measure everything before requesting a van or to estimate and adjust later. Measuring first is usually the more useful route. Note the length, width and height of each large item, including any parts that stick out such as handles, feet or detachable legs, and record whether anything can be dismantled. Write the measurements against each item on a single list rather than keeping them in your head, and photograph awkward pieces so you can refer back to them. If an item comes apart, note the size of the largest remaining section, since that is the figure that matters when matching the job to a van. Share the completed list with the team when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Weighing one trip against several
Once your item list is complete, you can decide whether everything needs to travel together or whether the job could be split. Consider which items are needed urgently and which could wait a few days, and whether any piece is so large that it must be collected separately. If you are moving goods to a recipient, record their contact details and the times they can accept deliveries, since that may shape how many runs are practical. It can also help to group items by destination, so you can see at a glance whether one route covers everything or several addresses are involved. When you request a quote, mention the dates you have in mind and ask the team how the hire period would work if you needed the van across more than one day.
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Last checks 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.