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.
Planning the Order of Your Stops
If your hire day involves several destinations, sketching the running order on paper before you book can highlight details worth checking. List each address, note what is being dropped off or collected there, and record any time windows a recipient has mentioned. Where items are destined for different places, label your list by address so nothing is left at the wrong stop. Include a contact name and number for every location, since questions about gates, parking or access are best answered by the person expecting the delivery. If a storage unit is part of the plan, note its booking reference and opening arrangements. This written order of stops, alongside your item list and dates, gives the team a clear picture when discussing which van option suits.
Recording Entrance and Item Dimensions
Measurements taken in advance answer questions that are difficult to resolve on the day. Walk through each property involved and note the width and height of doorways, hallways and any stair turns, plus lift dimensions where one exists. Then measure the largest items on your list, recording height, width and depth for each, and list separate figures for parts that can be dismantled. Anything with an unusual shape, such as a corner sofa or a tall wardrobe, deserves its own note. If a recipient will be present at the far end, their contact details let you confirm the entrance arrangements with them directly. Present these figures with your hire dates and access notes when requesting a quote, and the team can consider which available vehicle matches your recorded measurements.
Explore other van hire areas
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.