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.
Writing Down a Full Load Inventory
Start by listing every item you expect to carry, however obvious it seems at the time. Note each piece of furniture, box, appliance or tool along with a short description, and mark anything that comes apart, has awkward corners or belongs to someone else. Record the rough number of boxes and bags rather than guessing later, and flag items that are unusually large or that you would struggle to describe over the phone. If the load is split between two addresses, keep separate lists for each. This inventory is what the team will use when matching your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, so an accurate version leads to a more useful conversation. You can also note which items could be left behind or collected another day if the load turns out larger than expected, which keeps your options open without changing the hire itself.
Measuring Items and Checking Entrances
Before requesting a quote, take a tape measure to the bulkiest things on your list and write down their height, width and depth, including any handles, feet or packaging still attached. Note whether wardrobes, sofas or desks can be dismantled and, if so, what the sizes become once separated. Then turn your attention to the access points at both ends: door widths, hallway turns, stair landings and gate openings, where relevant. If you are collecting from a shop or a private seller, ask them for the packaged dimensions rather than relying on the listed figures. Keep these measurements with your inventory so everything sits in one place. Any questions about parking, entry restrictions or site rules at a destination belong with the people managing that site, so it is worth gathering their contact details early in case you need to ask.
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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.