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 bulky items before you enquire
Before choosing between van types, spend a few minutes recording the dimensions of the largest items you plan to move. Note the length, width and height of each piece of furniture or equipment, along with anything awkward such as protruding handles, legs that cannot be removed or shelving that arrives assembled. Write these figures down rather than estimating, and include the number of each item. If some things can be flat-packed or dismantled beforehand, say so in your enquiry, since that detail is worth including when the team discusses the options. It is also useful to list the total number of boxes and smaller pieces. Whether a given van suits your load is a question to put to the team directly rather than one to guess at yourself.
One trip or several: weighing it up
A key decision is whether to move everything in a single outing or split the job across multiple runs. To make that choice, note your hire dates, how long each run might take to load and unload at both ends, and any time limits at the places you are collecting from or delivering to. If a recipient is expecting goods, record their contact details and preferred delivery windows so you can coordinate on the day. You might also list which items are urgent and which could wait for a second visit. Whether one trip or several suits your circumstances depends on factors the team can talk through with you, so raise the comparison when you ask for a quote and keep the decision open until then.
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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.