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 Items and Entrances Before You Book
Which measurements matter? Start with the tallest and longest items you plan to carry, then note each one's height, width and length on paper. Add the entrances involved: door widths at both ends, any narrow gates, and whether lifts or stairwells form part of the journey. If a sofa, wardrobe or workbench appears on your list, record its dimensions separately rather than guessing. Where the destination is a storage unit, business premises or a friend's house, keep a contact name and number handy so you can ask about access directly. When you request a quote, pass these figures along with your hire dates, and the team can discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available.
Noting Which Items Belong at Each Stop
A written list of what goes where can settle most questions before the van arrives. Group your items by destination: furniture for the new flat, tools for the workshop, boxes destined for storage. Against each group, note the recipient's name and phone number, plus any preferred delivery window they have mentioned. If something is needed urgently, such as a tool kit for a morning job, flag it on the list so it is easy to identify later. You might also photograph bulky pieces before the day, which helps if a question about condition ever arises. Send the finished list with your enquiry, along with the access arrangements and dates, and the team will have a clear picture of the job from the outset.
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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.