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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Entrances and Items
Which measurements should you take before requesting a quote? Start with the items themselves: note the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, and record any parts that detach, along with their separate sizes. Then consider the entrances involved at both ends of the journey, including doorways, corridors, gates and any lifts, writing down their clearances so you have figures to hand. If furniture has awkward angles or removable legs, noting these details can be useful when discussing which van suits the job. When you contact the team, sharing these dimensions alongside your hire dates allows the job to be matched to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where one is available. Any questions about access at the destination itself, such as whether a gate can be opened or a lift is working, should go to the contact person at that address rather than being assumed.
Weighing Up One Trip or Several
Could your move work as a single journey, or would two or three shorter runs serve you better? This question is worth thinking through before you book, since the answer affects which van you request. Start by listing everything you plan to carry, then estimate the total volume and see how it compares with the items you could reasonably move in one go. You might also consider the time each option involves, including the drive between locations and any waiting at either end. If some items are needed urgently and others can wait, splitting the job could suit your circumstances. When asking for a quote, you could describe both approaches and see what the team advises for your dates and load, or ask whether different vehicle options are available across the days you have in mind. Keeping your item list to hand makes these conversations far easier.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.