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.
Picking a suitable van
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 Before You Book
Your first decision is which items actually need to travel, so walk around the house or workshop with a tape measure and note each large piece. Record the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, workbenches or appliances, and jot down anything awkward such as protruding handles or legs that cannot be removed. If an item came flat-packed, check whether it can be dismantled again, since that changes the dimensions you pass on. Keep the list with estimated measurements for every piece, along with a rough count of boxes and bags. When you contact the team, these figures let them discuss whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the job, and they can flag anything that needs a second look.
Checking Entrances and Item Dimensions
Dimensions matter at both ends of the journey, not only inside the van. If you are collecting furniture or delivering to storage, note the width of doorways, garden gates, corridors and any lift at the destination, and compare them against your item list. Where a recipient is receiving goods, ask them to confirm measurements and access on their side, and record a contact number in case the driver needs to check something on the day. Questions that remain open might include whether a gate can be opened wider or whether a sofa comes apart. Writing these details down before the hire dates are fixed gives you time to resolve any gaps rather than discovering them mid-job.
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Last checks 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.