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.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before You Call
Before requesting a quote, it helps to write down every box you expect to move. Start with a count: how many boxes, roughly what size each one is, and which rooms they come from. Note anything fragile that needs particular care, and any boxes that will be packed last minute, since those can be easy to forget when estimating. If you already have a rough idea of where items are going at the other end, record that too, along with a contact name and number for anyone receiving the delivery. Once the list is complete, you can share it with the team, who can then discuss whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the job. The clearer the inventory, the more useful that conversation becomes for everyone involved.
Measuring Bulky Items in Advance
Which items will not fit into a standard box, and what are their actual dimensions? Sofa lengths, wardrobe heights, table widths and mattress sizes are all worth measuring before you make contact, along with noting whether anything comes apart into smaller sections. Write down the measurements in centimetres or inches, whichever you prefer, and flag anything with an awkward shape such as a corner unit or a long mirror. If an item is going to a recipient, ask them about door widths, stair access and lift availability at their address, since those details sit with the destination contact rather than the hire team. Recording all of this beforehand means you can answer the team's questions straight away and move on to discussing hire dates and the right van option.
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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.