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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Transporting hobby equipment
Decide early which equipment is definitely making the journey. Whether it is sailing gear, model railway boards, camping kit or instruments, write each item down with its approximate length, width and height, since hobby equipment often comes in cases that are longer or taller than they first appear. Note anything that travels in separate sections and any bag or box that accompanies the main item. Record the dates you need the van and whether the equipment returns the same day or stays away. If someone at the venue or storage site needs to be told about your arrival, keep their contact details with your notes. A measured list gives you something to check against when the team matches the job to a van, and it flags any item worth discussing before you book.
Organising a household move
A written plan carries a move further than good intentions. Start with a room-by-room list of what is going, noting furniture dimensions, the number of boxes and any items such as wardrobes or appliances that need dismantling. Record the addresses at both ends, along with the access arrangements at each, and confirm any time restrictions with the contacts there. Write down the hire dates, including whether you might need the van for an extra day, and note who is available to help on each date. Ask yourself whether anything will go into storage rather than the new home, and note the storage site's opening hours. Questions like these, answered on paper, give the hire team a clear picture when they match the job to a van.
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Things to check 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.