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.
Preparing a Business Delivery Run
If the van is for commercial deliveries, gather the operational details before you contact the team. List each consignment with its dimensions and approximate quantity, then note the delivery sequence you have in mind and the time windows the recipients have given you. Record a named contact and phone number at every drop, along with any instructions they have provided about gates, loading bays or paperwork. Confirm whether signatures or photos are expected on arrival, and who back at base should receive proof of delivery. Check whether any single item exceeds the dimensions you have noted for the rest, since that may shape which van group you ask about. Present the full list, your dates and the access details together, and ask which vehicles are available to match the job.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Suppose the load includes one or two genuinely awkward pieces, perhaps a corner sofa, a wardrobe or a rolled carpet. Rather than estimating, take a tape measure and record the length, depth and height of each, noting any parts that detach such as legs, doors or handles. Write the measurements next to the item on a single list, together with the total number of boxes and bags that will accompany them. Where an item is especially tall or long, flag that separately, since it may raise different questions from a stack of identical cartons. Keep the list with your hire dates and access notes, then ask the team which van groups they would consider for those recorded dimensions, and whether anything on your list needs clarifying before they confirm.
Explore other van hire areas
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.