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.
Moving Hobby Equipment
Say the weekend involves kayaks, model railway boards or a stall's worth of craft gear. Before settling on a van, list each piece with its dimensions, count every item, and note whether anything breaks down into smaller parts for the journey. Record the dates you need cover and whether the kit returns the same day or stays with you longer. If someone at the destination expects the equipment, add their name and number to your notes. When you ask for a quote, questions worth raising include which van the team would suggest for your recorded measurements and what to do if a piece proves larger than the figures you supplied.
Noting Bulky Item Dimensions
Large items deserve their own written record before any hire conversation. Measure each one's length, width and height, and jot the figures next to a short description so nothing gets mixed up later. Where furniture is involved, note whether doors, legs or shelves detach, since that detail often influences which van is discussed. Include the quantity of every item type on the same list, and make a separate note of anything fragile that you plan to wrap yourself. With your quote request, you could ask whether the figures you have recorded point towards a particular van and confirm who to contact if a measurement needs revising after you have seen the vehicle.
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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.