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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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 and Entrances in Advance
Will the wardrobe actually fit through the door? That question is worth answering before you book anything. Walk around the property and measure the entrances, corridors, stair widths and any gates the van will pass through, writing each figure down alongside a note of which room it relates to. Then measure the largest items themselves, including sofas, wardrobes and white goods, recording their height, width and depth. Photograph anything with an unusual shape so you have a record to refer to. If a lift or a narrow lane is involved, note that too. When you ask for a quote, you can share these measurements and ask which van size the team would suggest for a load of those dimensions, and whether any item raises questions worth checking.
Planning a Move with Boxed Belongings
When most of your belongings are going into boxes, a written inventory keeps the job organised. Number each box as you pack it and note the contents and the room it belongs to, which helps you confirm nothing is missing afterwards. Count the boxes, note their approximate sizes, and set aside a separate list for anything unboxed such as lamps, bikes or mirrors. Decide the hire dates and whether you need the van for one day or several, and note the address you are moving from and to, along with a contact name and number at the receiving end. If some boxes will go to storage rather than the new home, mention that when you request a quote so the team understands the full job.
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Things to check 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.