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 Enquire
Before requesting a quote, write an inventory of everything you plan to move in boxes. Count the boxes, note their approximate sizes, and mark which ones contain fragile items so you can flag them in your notes. Record the hire dates you have in mind, including whether you might need the van for an extra day, and any access arrangements at both ends, such as gates, parking spots or time windows set by a building manager. If someone is receiving the goods, keep their name and phone number handy in case the delivery window shifts. Questions you might put to the team include whether a small van or a Transit better matches your box count, and what details they need to confirm availability for your chosen dates.
Measuring Bulky Items for Your Booking
Measuring awkward or oversized items in advance gives the team useful facts when matching a van to your job. Take a tape to each large piece, noting its length, width and height, and write the figures beside the item's name on your list. Sofa shapes, wardrobes, mattresses, workbenches and flat-pack units each deserve their own entry, and any item that separates into parts should be recorded that way. Photographing the pieces can help you describe them accurately when you call. Also note the hire dates, the access arrangements at collection and drop-off points, and the recipient's contact details if someone else accepts the delivery. You can then ask whether a Luton, dropside or crew van suits your list, and confirm what the team needs before the booking is settled.
Explore other van hire areas
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.