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.
Writing a Load Inventory That Helps
A written inventory is the most useful thing you can prepare before asking about a van. Go room by room, or pallet by pallet, and list each item you intend to move, however small it seems. Beside every entry, note whether it comes apart, whether it is boxed or loose, and any dimensions you have measured yourself. Where an item is being collected from a shop or a seller, record what they have told you about its size and packaging. Total up the count once you finish, and keep the list with your hire dates so the team can see the whole job at a glance. If some items are optional, mark them as such. You can then ask directly which entries influence the choice between the van types available.
Measuring the Awkward Items Carefully
Bulky pieces deserve their own measurements, taken before you enquire rather than guessed afterwards. For furniture, measure the height, width and depth at the widest points, including any protruding handles, feet or packaging, and note whether legs or doors can be removed. For rolled or flat items such as carpets, boards or sheet materials, record the length plus the diameter or thickness. Write each figure down in the same unit throughout so nothing needs converting later. If an item is still at a supplier, ask them for the packaged dimensions and note who gave you the numbers. When you contact the team, share these measurements alongside your inventory and ask whether anything on the list needs clarifying before a van type is suggested for your dates.
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.