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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
What fits through the door matters as much as what fits in the van. Before enquiring, measure the height, width and depth of every large item you plan to move, from wardrobes and mattresses to tool chests and boxed appliances. Note whether legs, doors or handles can be removed, and record the dimensions of any parts once separated. Then measure the spaces the items must pass through: doorframes, hallways, stairwells and garden gates at both the pickup and drop-off ends. Keep two distinct lists so a doorway measurement never gets mistaken for an item measurement. If anything looks borderline, write down the exact numbers rather than rounding. When you ask for a quote, share both lists alongside the access arrangements and hire dates so the team can discuss which van suits the job.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Boxes are easier to plan than furniture, but they still deserve an accurate tally. Count how many you expect, note the size of each, and flag any that are heavier or more fragile than the rest. If some boxes are going to a different address, such as a storage unit or a relative's house, list those separately with their destination and the name and number of whoever will receive them. Decide the hire dates once you know when each drop-off point is open, and record any time windows the recipients have given you. Questions about access at a storage facility belong with that facility. When you contact the team for a price, give the box count, sizes, destinations, access notes and dates; from there they can talk through the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options where available.
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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.