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.
Taking hobby equipment from A to B
The first decision with hobby gear is usually what exactly needs to travel. If you are moving a kayak, a model railway layout or several boxes of tools, measure the longest and widest items and note any soft bags that can squash into gaps around them. Write down the quantities as well, since three bikes and one bike lead to quite different conversations. Think about whether anything can be dismantled beforehand and how long that takes, then decide whether your chosen hire dates still work. If you are collecting equipment from a shop or another owner, keep their contact details to hand and agree a pick-up window before you book. Questions worth raising with the team include whether your load list suits a small van or something larger, and whether any straps or covers are supplied, so nothing is left to guesswork.
Getting organised for a household move
For a house move, start with a room-by-room inventory rather than a rough guess. Count the boxes, note the large pieces such as wardrobes and sofas, and record the dimensions of anything that will not break down. If some items are going to a storage unit and others to the new address, sketch the order you want to work in and how many trips you expect to make across your hire dates. Confirm the access arrangements at each end, including any restrictions on when you can load, and keep the contact details for anyone you need to coordinate with on the day. It can also help to ask the team whether a Luton or a dropside suits your list, since the choice depends on what you are carrying. Whatever remains uncertain, list it as a question when you request a quote.
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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.