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.
Writing a Load Inventory First
Start by writing down everything that needs to travel in the van. Go room by room if it is a house move, or list each job and its materials if it is trade work, and note the number of boxes, bags, tools and furniture pieces involved. Where an item is awkward, record its dimensions rather than a rough guess, and flag anything that could affect the choice of vehicle, such as long lengths of timber or a large wardrobe. If goods are going to several addresses, note which items belong where and who will receive them, including contact numbers for anyone expecting a delivery. A written inventory gives you something solid to discuss when you request a quote, and it helps the team suggest the right van size for the job.
Noting Entrances and Item Sizes
Alongside your inventory, gather the measurements that shape the whole job. Note the height, width and depth of the largest items, and if you can, check the relevant doorways, corridors, gates or lifts at both ends of the journey, including any restrictions on when you can access them. Write down parking arrangements and any time windows you have agreed with the other parties. If access details are still unknown, it is worth asking the destination contact directly, since they know the site better than anyone. When you enquire, share these figures and describe anything unusual, then ask which vehicle options would suit. Keeping all of this on one page makes the conversation straightforward and lets you compare the answers you receive.
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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.