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 Items and Entrances Before You Book
Will your sofa actually fit through the door? Before requesting a van, measure the largest items you plan to move, noting height, width and depth, and record whether anything can be tilted or dismantled. Then measure the relevant openings at both ends: doorframes, hallway turns, stair landings and any gate or lane the van itself may need to use. Write these figures down alongside your item list rather than estimating from memory, and photograph awkward pieces if you want to describe them accurately. If an item will not come apart, say so when you enquire, since this changes which vans are worth considering. Supplying real measurements lets the team suggest a suitable option from those available rather than working from guesswork.
Working Through a List of Boxed Items
A room-by-room inventory is the most useful thing you can prepare for a house move. Count the boxes in each room, note roughly what size they are, and list anything that travels loose, such as mattresses, plants or a bicycle. Mark which boxes are fragile and which need to reach the new address first, perhaps kitchen essentials or children's bedtime things. Record the delivery address in full, including any flat or floor number, and note where the boxes should end up within the property if that matters to you. Keep the list on your phone so it survives the move. Sharing the totals when you ask about a van helps the team gauge the scale of the job for your chosen dates.
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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.