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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Transporting hobby equipment
Your decision may hinge on what the equipment actually measures, so start with a tape measure and a written list. Whether the gear is sailing kit, exhibition stands or gardening tools for a show, record each item's length, width and height, and note anything that comes apart, along with the sizes of the separate pieces. Count the bags and boxes too, since exact figures let the team discuss the right van with you. If the equipment belongs to several people, agree whose contact details go on the enquiry and who will be present at the handover. Think about whether you need the van for the whole event period or only the travel days either side, and note those dates clearly. Questions about whether a dropside or a Luton suits the load belong in your quote request, and the team can talk you through the differences.
Comparing one trip with several
You might be weighing whether to move everything in a single outing or spread it over a few shorter hires. To make that comparison, list every item with its dimensions and note the total number of pieces, then consider how many trips each option would involve if you had to repeat the run. Record the dates you have in mind for each scenario, since a single longer hire and several shorter ones will need different date ranges in the enquiry. If goods are going to more than one address, note the contact name and number for each recipient, along with anything they have told you about access at their end. Write down whether you would want the same van throughout or different sizes for different legs. The team can then discuss the options and the matching vehicles when you ask for a quote, before you settle on one approach.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.