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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Will everything actually fit through the gaps? Before you settle on a van, measure the largest items you plan to move and note the figures alongside a description of each piece. Record doorway, corridor and gate widths at both the collection point and the destination, since a sofa or wardrobe that leaves one building may struggle at the other end. Where a measurement is uncertain, a quick tape check is worth doing before you enquire rather than guessing. Note any tight turns, steps or narrow passages on the route between the van and the door. These figures let you discuss access arrangements and vehicle options with the team from a position of certainty.
Keeping a Load Inventory
What exactly is going into the van? A room-by-room inventory is the simplest way to answer that question. List each item or box with a short description, note which room or address it belongs to, and flag anything fragile, long or unusually shaped. If items are destined for different people, add each recipient's name and contact number so drops can be sequenced sensibly. Keep a separate column for things you may decide to leave behind, which makes revising the list straightforward. Once complete, the inventory doubles as a checklist on the day and gives you precise answers when the team asks what you need to carry and on which dates.
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Things to check 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.