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.
One trip or several
One decision worth making early is whether everything can travel in a single journey or whether several trips are realistic. If you are moving between two addresses, count the items on your list and consider which of them must go on the same day. A furniture collection from a shop might need its own arrangement if the pieces are large, while boxes for a storage run could wait for another date. Write down the dates you have in mind for each part of the job, plus the access arrangements at every address, including gates, parking or time limits. When you contact the team, describe both the combined load and any split plan, because that information helps them suggest whether a small van, a Transit or a Luton matches the work.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
Before you enquire about a van, measure the bulky items you plan to move and keep the figures with your notes. For each piece of furniture or equipment, record the height, width and depth, and note anything that comes apart, such as a bed frame or a shelving unit, along with the sizes of the separate parts. Photographs can be a useful reminder when you are describing things. Add the total number of boxes, bags and loose items to the same list, and note any piece that is unusually shaped. If an item has to fit through a doorway at either end, it is the destination contact who can confirm those dimensions. Sharing accurate measurements with the team allows them to judge which van size the job calls for.
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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.