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 Your Load Before You Enquire
Before contacting the team, start with a simple written list of everything going into the van, since this single document answers most of the questions that arise during a quote. For each item, note whether it is boxed, loose or wrapped, and record approximate dimensions for anything oversized, such as a wardrobe or a rolled carpet. Boxed belongings deserve particular attention: count the boxes, group them by room or owner, and mark any that contain fragile contents so you can describe the load accurately. If some items might be left behind or added later, flag them separately rather than guessing. Where a storage unit is involved, note the unit number and access hours. This list can then be shared with the team, giving them a clear picture of the job before suggesting a vehicle.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes in Advance
A second set of measurements worth gathering covers the places your items must pass through, including doorways, corridors, stairwells and any gates at either end of the journey. If a sofa, mattress or appliance needs to come out of one building and into another, noting the width and height of the tightest gap helps you judge whether it will travel as a single piece or might need discussing with the supplier first. The same applies to items already in storage, where corridor access may be narrower than at a house. Record these figures alongside your item dimensions so both sets are available when you ask about a van. If any measurement seems borderline, it is better to raise it as a question when enquiring than to discover a problem on the day of the move.
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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.