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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Will your largest item actually pass through the spaces along its route? Before requesting a van, measure the widest and tallest pieces on your list, then note the dimensions of any doorways, gates, corridors or stairwells they must travel through at both ends of the journey. Record these figures next to each item on your inventory so nothing is guessed at on the day. If a sofa, wardrobe or appliance looks borderline, take both its measurements and those of the opening it must clear. This information is worth sharing with the team, who will help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Questions that remain open might include whether an item can be dismantled or turned at an angle, and the team can note your access arrangements alongside these details.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Have you got a single written list of everything going into the van? An inventory begins with every item named and counted, whether that is boxes of belongings, furniture, trade materials or delivery goods. Add rough dimensions and any notes about fragility or special handling requirements beside each entry, keeping this purely as a record rather than a plan of action. If the list spans several rooms or several delivery addresses, group the items by destination and note who will receive each group, including contact details for anyone expecting a delivery. The finished inventory can accompany your enquiry about hire dates and access arrangements, and it lets the team see the full scope of the job. Open questions might include whether optional items should stay on the list or be dropped if the total grows.
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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.