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.
What to write down when moving boxes
Begin with the details that describe the job. If you are moving boxed belongings, count the boxes by size, noting how many are large, medium and small, and set aside a separate line for anything not in a box, such as a mattress, bicycle or rolled carpet. Record the hire dates, including any flexibility either side, and the addresses involved, along with who will be present at each end. Note whether items are going to one destination or several, since that can affect the vehicle you ask about. If some boxes are still being packed, estimate the final count and say it is an estimate when enquiring. Questions that remain open, such as whether a small van or Luton suits the load, can then be answered by the team with real figures in front of them.
Measuring bulky items for your enquiry
Bulky items deserve their own measurements. For each one, note the length, width and height, and record whether the item reduces in size when a part is removed, such as table legs, a bed frame or a wardrobe door. Keep the figures on the same list as your box counts so the whole load is described in one place. If two items are similar, measure both anyway, since small differences add up. Flag anything unusually long or tall when you request a quote, and mention the total number of pieces alongside the measurements. Where you cannot measure an item before booking, note that gap and ask the team how best to proceed. These notes give the team something concrete to work from when matching the job to a van.
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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.