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.
Measuring before you ask for a van
The first decision many customers face is whether to measure their larger items or simply estimate. Measuring tends to be the more useful route. Take the height, width and depth of each bulky piece, and note whether wardrobes, sofas or shelving can be dismantled, since a flat-packed item presents a very different picture from an assembled one. Write the figures next to each item on your list, and include any protruding parts such as legs or handles. When you then ask the hire team about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, you can share real numbers rather than impressions, and they can discuss which option they would consider for the job. If some items are still at another address, arrange to measure them before the booking rather than after.
Keeping a running load list
Alongside measurements, a simple inventory of everything you intend to carry helps keep the whole job in view. List furniture, boxes, appliances and any loose items, marking anything fragile or oddly shaped. You can update the list as packing progresses, crossing off pieces that no longer need to move and adding anything forgotten. This record also gives you something to refer back to at both ends of the journey, so nothing is left behind at a pickup address or overlooked at a drop-off. When you contact the team, they can talk through the list with you and note the access arrangements you describe. Keeping the inventory to hand also makes it easier to answer any questions they raise while preparing your quote.
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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.