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 Bulky Items Before You Book
Before choosing between a small van and a Luton, take a tape measure to the largest items you intend to carry. Note each item's height, width and depth, and jot down anything that does not come apart, such as a solid wardrobe or a fixed-length ladder. If furniture can be dismantled, decide whether you will take it apart or move it whole, and record the resulting dimensions either way. Where a piece has awkward protrusions, measure at the widest point rather than the middle. When you ask for a quote, send this list along with your hire dates and access arrangements, and raise any question about which van size matches your measurements before confirming the booking.
Coordinating Helpers on Moving Day
If friends or colleagues have offered to help, agree the details with them well before the van is booked. Ask who is available on which date, how long they can stay, and whether any of them need to leave early for other commitments. Keep a shared note of the items they will help with, along with the dimensions you have already measured, so everyone knows what the day involves. If a helper drops out, note who could step in and how the list would change. You might also confirm the access arrangements at each end, such as who to contact on arrival, and pass those details to the team with your hire dates when requesting a quote.
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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.