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.
Measuring Items Before You Enquire
Will your largest item actually present a problem? Before asking for a quote, walk around your load and record the dimensions of the biggest pieces, including height, width and depth. Sofas, wardrobes and flat-pack boxes are worth measuring twice, since a few centimetres can change which van group makes sense for the job. Note any item that comes apart, such as a bed frame with removable legs, and write down whether you intend to dismantle it before the hire date. If furniture will pass through a narrow doorway or stairwell at either end, keep those measurements on your list as well, though questions about building access are best directed to the site contact. A simple written record of sizes and quantities lets the team talk you through the options without guesswork.
Listing Boxed Belongings Clearly
How many boxes are you really dealing with? When a move involves boxed belongings, a room-by-room count is usually the most reliable starting point. Jot down the number of boxes per room, their approximate sizes, and any bags or loose items that will not fit inside a box. Mark which boxes contain fragile pieces so you can flag them during the enquiry, and note anything unusually shaped, such as lamps, mirrors or garden tools. If some items are staying behind or going to storage instead, keep those on a separate list to avoid confusion about the total load. Deciding the hire dates early also matters, since boxed moves often depend on key handovers or collection windows. A clear inventory, with counts and sizes, gives the team the detail needed to suggest a suitable van.
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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.