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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
The moment you decide to move a canoe, a model railway collection or a set of DJ decks, the details become the deciding factor. Start by listing every piece of equipment, along with its rough length, width and height, and note whether anything breaks down into smaller sections. Photographs of the awkward items give you a reference while discussing options. Record how many people the trip involves, since a crew van might come into the conversation if helpers are travelling too, and note whether any kit needs to stay dry or stay upright during the journey. If the equipment belongs to a club, check who is responsible for it on the day and who holds the keys for storage or venue gates. When you request a quote, share the item list and access arrangements so the team can match the job to a suitable van.
Listing Items for a Smooth Move
A written inventory turns a vague plan into something you can act on. Go through each room or each box and note what will travel, marking anything oversized, fragile or awkward in shape. Where an item can be measured, record its dimensions, and where it cannot be dismantled, note that too, since both facts help when discussing whether a small van, Transit or Luton fits the bill. Assign each item to its destination if there are several drop-offs, and add a name and number for the person receiving goods at each stop. Include quantities rather than guesses: five boxes, two mattresses, one table. Keeping this list on your phone means it is to hand when you enquire about dates, and the team can use the breakdown to talk through the van options available for your booking.
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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.