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 Items and Entrances Before You Book
Will everything actually fit through the openings involved? That question is worth answering before you book rather than on the day. Start by listing each item you plan to move, then measure the three main dimensions of the largest pieces, such as a wardrobe, sofa or workbench, and write the figures beside each entry. Next, think about the entrances involved: the doorways, corridors, gates or storage-unit openings at both the pickup point and the destination. If any measurement looks marginal, note it as a query rather than assuming it will be fine. When you contact the team, you can share the item list and the access notes together, which helps them match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and keeps the booking conversation grounded in your actual requirements.
Planning a Move with Boxed Belongings
If your load is mainly boxed belongings, an early inventory makes the whole process easier to organise. Count the boxes, note roughly what each group contains, and mark any that hold fragile items so you can mention them when enquiring. Consider the order of your day too: which address you are collecting from, where the boxes are going, and whether anyone needs to be notified at either end before you arrive. If some items are going to a storage unit, write down the unit number and any access times you have been given. Having this written plan means you can give the team a clear picture of the job, ask informed questions about the hire dates, and feel prepared when the day comes rather than working from memory alone.
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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.