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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Write down everything you plan to carry before you contact the team, starting with a simple list grouped by type: boxes, furniture, appliances, tools and any miscellaneous items. Against each entry, note the quantity and, where relevant, the approximate size, and mark anything fragile or unusually shaped so it can be mentioned when you ask for a quote. If goods are destined for more than one address, record the recipient and a contact number for each drop so nothing is left ambiguous. Keep the list together with your hire dates and the access arrangements so everything sits in one place. Once the inventory is complete, questions you might ask include which vehicle groups suit the total load and whether anything on your list needs particular attention.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Alongside your inventory, record the dimensions of the largest items and the openings they must pass through, as these numbers often decide which van makes sense for the job. Measure each big piece for height, width and depth, and note whether legs, doors or handles can be removed to reduce the size. Then measure the doorways, corridors and stairwells at your collection point, writing down the narrowest and lowest points. At the destination, questions about access, parking and entrance sizes belong to whoever manages that property, so keep their contact details to hand and ask them directly. Keep all these measurements together with your list of hire dates, and raise any remaining queries, such as vehicle availability, with the team when you request a quote.
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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.