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.
Measure the Hobby Kit First
Your first job is to decide exactly which equipment is coming along. Whether you sail, cycle, paint landscapes or keep bees, list every piece you plan to transport and take approximate measurements of the awkward items: the length of a mast or roof bar set, the width of a folded trestle table, the height of a stacked crate of tools. Note anything that comes apart, such as a bike with wheels removed or a dismantled easel, and record the dimensions both ways if that changes the picture. Once the list and measurements are written down, you can share them with the team along with the access arrangements and hire dates, and ask which of the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options, where available, would suit the load.
Give Yourself Time to Get Ready
Packing a van for a hobby trip often takes longer than expected, so it is worth planning the schedule with that in mind. Decide when you will gather the equipment, where it currently sits, and whether anything needs cleaning, deflating, drained or dismantled before it travels. Note the time you want to set off and work backwards, allowing room for finding straps, keys, covers and small parts that tend to go missing. If a helper is joining you, agree with them in advance when they will arrive and what they will bring. Record any open questions too, such as whether the collection point or destination has particular access arrangements, and raise these when you request a quote for your chosen dates.
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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.