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.
Note Down Your Item Sizes
Which measurements actually matter when you are putting a hire request together? Start with the largest three or four pieces: a sofa, a wardrobe, a workbench or stacked trade materials. Record each one's length, width, height and, where relevant, weight, and add anything awkward such as a mirror, a ladder or an appliance still in its packaging. It also helps to photograph anything oversized so you can share the images when you ask about a van. Where a collection address has narrow corridors or a tight stairwell, keep those figures handy too, since the team may ask about them before discussing a small van, Transit or Luton.
Build a Simple Unloading List
Before the hire date arrives, it is worth sketching the order in which things will come off at each stop. Write a list of everything going to each address, then decide which pieces belong in which room or workspace, and share contact names and phone numbers for anyone receiving deliveries at either end. If a collection point has a goods entrance, a shared reception or a neighbour holding keys, note who to call and when they are available. You might also record time windows for each stop, including shop opening hours or a customer expecting furniture in the afternoon. Questions worth raising with the team include whether one hire period covers several drops, what happens if a stop runs late, and how flexible the return time is if your schedule shifts.
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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.