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 the Awkward Pieces
Decide early which items will dictate the van you need, and measure those first. A three-seater sofa, a wardrobe or a dining table usually outranks everything else, so record its height, width and depth in centimetres, along with any protruding parts such as legs, arms or handles. Note whether the piece separates, whether doors or drawers come off, and whether it was originally delivered flat. If an item came in a box, keep that box's dimensions if you still have them. Write each measurement against the item's name rather than relying on memory. When you contact the team, these figures let them consider whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the job, and they can ask follow-up questions if something looks borderline.
Organising the Boxed Items
Boxes deserve their own plan, separate from the bulky furniture. Count how many you expect and note their sizes, grouping them into small, medium and large if that is easier than measuring each one. Mark which room every box belongs to, since that helps whoever receives them at the far end. Record any box containing fragile items, and note where it should end up. If the boxes go into storage rather than a new address, write down the storage unit number and the hours the site opens. Ask the team whether your total count fits comfortably within the van you have in mind, and mention any boxes that might arrive late to the list. A written tally avoids second guesses on the day.
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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.