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 decision to measure your largest items first can save a lot of back-and-forth later. Take a tape to each bulky piece, noting height, width and depth, and write the figures next to the item name on your list. Remember to include anything that will not disassemble, such as a solid wardrobe or a fixed-length workbench, and note whether doors, mirrors or handles add to the recorded size. Photographs can help the team understand awkward shapes. Once the dimensions are written down, share them with your quote request and ask which van options the measurements suggest. Questions still open might include whether a partially dismantled item changes the picture, which is worth asking before you confirm dates.
Deciding between one run or several
When a job could be done in one long outing or split across two, a short comparison on paper helps. List the items in order of destination, note any time windows set by the people receiving them, and record each recipient's contact number in case timings need adjusting. Consider who can help on each date and whether any storage facility has cut-off times for access. If you sketch both versions, mark what would travel on each run and where you would pause between them. You can then present both plans when asking about a van, noting the dates you have in mind for each. The remaining question is usually your own availability rather than anything about the vehicles, so keep that in the notes too.
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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.