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.
One Trip or Several?
A decision worth making early is whether you plan to move everything in a single run or spread the job across several trips. Start by listing each item or batch of goods with a note of its rough size, then consider how the totals compare with a small van, a Transit or a Luton. If some pieces are being collected from different addresses, write down each location, the contact there, and the times they can receive you. A crew van may be relevant if colleagues are travelling along, so note the number of people as well as the cargo. Ask the team how the options compare for your load, and confirm the hire dates before you commit. The open question is whether one larger van or repeat journeys in a smaller one better matches your schedule and access arrangements.
Measure Bulky Items Before Enquiring
Before requesting a quote, take a tape measure to the largest items and record their length, width and height, plus any awkward features such as protruding handles, drawers that cannot be removed or legs that stay fixed. A sofa, wardrobe or workbench described simply as 'big' leaves too much open, whereas written dimensions let the team consider whether a Luton, dropside or standard Transit fits the job. Note the total number of pieces as well, and whether anything comes apart into smaller sections. If items are being collected from a shop, auction house or private seller, keep that person's contact details to hand. Questions to raise include which van sizes are available on your dates, and what information the team needs about destination access, since that sits with the site you are delivering to rather than the hire.
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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.