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 Written Load Inventory
Start with a list of everything going into the van. An inventory written before the hire gives you something to work from when the day arrives. Go room by room or job by job and note each item, however small, grouping them by destination if more than one drop is involved. Mark anything fragile or awkward, and add a note of which items each person is responsible for. If some things may be sold, given away or left behind, put a question mark beside them and decide before the hire date. Keep a copy on your phone and another on paper. When you contact the team, the list also helps you describe the job accurately and ask about anything you are unsure of.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Which items will decide the size of van you need? Usually it is the largest few, so measure those first. Note the height, width and depth of each big piece, including wardrobes, sofas, fridges or workbenches, and record whether anything comes apart, along with the dimensions of the separated parts. Remember to note protruding handles, feet or packaging, since these add to the figures. If an item must pass through a narrow doorway or corridor at either end, measure that gap too and write both sets of numbers side by side. Photographing each piece next to a tape measure can help you check later. These measurements give the team something concrete to consider when you ask which vehicle suits the job.
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.