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.
Measuring bulky items first
The decision to hire a van often starts with a tape measure rather than a vehicle listing. Before contacting the team, measure your largest items at their widest, tallest and longest points, including any protruding handles, feet or packaging. Note whether anything can be dismantled, as a bed frame taken apart may travel very differently to one left whole. Write the figures down rather than estimating, because guesswork tends to shrink awkward items. If you are collecting furniture from a shop or seller, ask them for the packaged dimensions in advance. Passing accurate measurements to the team means the van you are offered is based on what will actually travel, and it helps avoid a second trip nobody planned for.
Check the entrances as well as the load
Dimensions work in two directions: the items going in, and the gaps they must pass through. Measure doorways, corridors, stairwells and lift openings at both the collection point and the delivery address, and think about tight corners or narrow garden paths along the way. If a sofa will not fit through the front door, the size of the van becomes a secondary question. Ask the person receiving the goods about parking and access too, since a large vehicle may struggle where a car would not. Where anything seems marginal, describe the situation when you enquire and the team can talk through the options. That conversation is far easier before the hire begins than on the day itself.
Explore other van hire areas
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.