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
Deciding what actually needs to travel is the natural starting point when hobby gear is involved. Whether it is a model railway layout, band equipment, camping kit or a restoration project, list every piece before you enquire, including the awkward items such as fold-up tables, flight cases or roof boxes. Record the length, width and height of each one, and note whether anything dismantles, since a stand that comes apart may count as two smaller pieces rather than one large one. If the equipment belongs to a club or several people, ask who is responsible for each item and get a contact number for them on the day. Check whether the venue or storage site has opening hours or access restrictions worth noting. Sending the list and dates to the team together means the vehicle discussion starts from the full picture rather than a partial one.
Noting entrance and item measurements
Dimensions deserve their own column on your planning list. For each item, measure the longest side, the widest point and the full height including any protruding handles, feet or packaging, and write the numbers down as you go. Then turn the tape measure to the route the items must take: the doorway where they currently sit, any corridor or landing, the outside gate, and the corresponding entrance at the other end. If furniture will travel flat or at an angle, note that beside the measurement so the figures stay meaningful. Where a storage unit or trade counter is involved, their opening hours and any lift or ramp details are worth recording too. These notes give the team something concrete to discuss when matching your job to a van, and they flag any item that needs a second look before the hire is confirmed.
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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.