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.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
The first decision with bulky furniture is whether to measure it at all — and the answer should always be yes. Use a tape on the longest, widest and tallest points, including any parts that stick out such as feet, handles or a headboard, and write each figure down in centimetres. Note whether items come apart, which fixings or tools are involved, and whether the doorways at either end are wide enough for the pieces to pass through. Record the count of each item as well: three mattresses, two wardrobes, one sofa. These figures let the team judge between a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and let you ask sensible questions about your load before booking.
Keeping count of boxed belongings
Boxes are easier to plan when you treat them as a count rather than a vague pile. As you pack, keep a running tally per room — twelve from the kitchen, eight from the bedroom — and note anything unusually heavy or awkwardly shaped. Decide in advance which boxes travel with you in a car and which go in the van, and mark the ones containing items needed on the first evening. Record the total number, the approximate size of the boxes, and any bags or loose items that will not stack. If storage forms part of the plan, note the unit details and access hours. Passing a clear figure to the team, alongside the hire dates and access arrangements, helps them match the van to the job.
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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.