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 Bulky Items Before You Book
Decide which items are definitely travelling and which might be left behind before you measure anything, as a firm list makes the rest of the planning simpler. Use a tape measure or a ruler to note the length, width and height of each bulky piece, and write the figures next to the item name rather than relying on memory. If something comes apart, record the dimensions of each section separately and note which parts belong together. Photographs can support your notes when describing awkward shapes. When you ask the team for a van, you can share this list and ask which options suit your measurements, whether a Luton or dropside would be considered, and whether any single item is unusual enough to discuss in detail.
Checking Entrances and Item Dimensions
Alongside measuring what you own, it is worth noting the spaces everything must pass through. Record the width and height of doorways, corridors, stairwells and any gates at both the collection point and the destination, then compare those figures with your item list. Where a recipient will accept the delivery, gather their name and phone number and ask them to confirm the access details themselves, since they know their own entrance best. Note any time restrictions on when items can be received, and whether a lift or ground-floor access applies. When speaking with the team, you can ask which van options they would suggest once they see your dimensions, and whether anything on your list needs a different approach.
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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.