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.
Keeping a Load Inventory That Works
Start with a notebook page and walk from room to room, writing down everything that will travel in the van. Group the entries by destination if your load is going to more than one address, and give each entry a brief description plus an approximate size. Flag the awkward pieces, such as a wardrobe or a workbench, with their height, width and depth taken with a tape measure rather than estimated. Keep the finished list with you during the hire period, and tick items off as they reach their destination. If the inventory grows or shrinks before the date, update the list and mention the change when you speak to the team, since the load shape affects which van suits the job.
Measuring Entrances and Items in Advance
Dimensions decide a lot, so gather them before you enquire rather than afterwards. Measure the largest items you plan to move and write each set of figures against the item's name on your list. Then, if you can, measure the doorways, corridors and stairwells those items must pass through at each end, and note anything tight, such as a narrow hall or a sharp turn. Where you cannot measure a destination yourself, the person to ask is the contact at that address, so keep their phone number alongside your notes. Record the answers you receive, including any time restrictions they mention. Those figures and replies give you something concrete to discuss when matching the job to a van.
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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.