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.
Building a Written Load Inventory
The most useful thing you can prepare is a written inventory of the load. Go room by room, or job by job, and list every item you intend to carry, numbering each entry so nothing is added twice. For furniture and awkward pieces, note the approximate height, width and depth, since those figures matter when the team matches the job to a van. Mark anything that is staying behind, and keep a separate column for items collected en route, such as a purchase picked up on the way. If the list changes after you request a quote, send an updated version rather than describing additions over the phone. A clear inventory also gives you something to check against when the day arrives and the van is due to be filled.
Measuring Entrances as Well as Items
Dimensions extend beyond the items themselves. Measure the largest pieces, then measure the entrances they must pass through at both ends, including doorways, corridors, stairwells and any gate or lane on the approach, and write each figure down with a note of where it came from. If a route to the property is narrow or has a restricted turning area, record that too, since access forms part of the information the team asks for. Where a measurement is awkward to take, estimate and say so when you enquire. Compare the item figures with the entrance figures before the hire date, and flag any piece that looks marginal as a question in your quote request. If the answer leaves the choice between van sizes unclear, ask rather than assuming the larger option.
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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.