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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Moving hobby equipment between venues
If your weekend revolves around kayaks, model railways or band gear, the first decision is what exactly needs to travel. Write an inventory of every piece, from the largest boat or amplifier down to cables, paddles and toolboxes, and record each item's length, width and height. Note how many boxes, bags and loose items you will have in total, and mark anything that needs particular care so you can raise it when enquiring. Settle the dates next, including whether you need the van overnight or across several days, and note where the equipment will be dropped off and who will receive it, with a phone number for that contact. When you request a quote, you can ask which vehicle types might suit the dimensions you have listed and whether any questions remain about access at the far end.
Keeping a load inventory worthwhile
An inventory is useful whenever it is written, and preparing one before the van is booked gives the team the most to work with. Start with a room-by-room or job-by-job list, grouping items by destination if you are making more than one drop. Against each entry, note the approximate dimensions and, where relevant, whether the item comes apart, though you need not decide how anything will be arranged on board. Record the names and numbers of people receiving goods at each stop, and confirm the dates and rough times that suit them. If some entries are uncertain, perhaps a sofa still to be measured or a delivery time awaiting confirmation, flag them as open questions. Sharing this list with the hire team lets you ask which van options might suit the recorded totals and what information they still need before confirming dates.
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Things to check 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.