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 Worth Having
Write down every item before anything is packed. A load inventory works best when it is specific: not just a sofa, but a three-seater sofa, and not just boxes, but twelve boxes of roughly equal size. Measure the largest pieces, noting length, width and height, plus anything with an unusual shape such as a mirror or a dismantled bed frame. Note which items are going to storage and which to a new address, so the list doubles as a plan for the day. Photograph bulky items if that helps you describe them later. When you contact the team about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, send the inventory along with the hire dates, because a full list lets them match the job to a vehicle far more precisely than a rough guess.
Thinking Through the Unloading Order
Which items will you need first at the other end? Thinking about this in advance turns the inventory into a more useful document. Note beside each entry where it belongs at the destination, perhaps by room or by shelf, so you can describe the job clearly when you request a quote. If furniture is being dismantled before the move, list the bags of fittings alongside the panels on your notes so nothing goes missing between addresses. Where a recipient is accepting goods on your behalf, record their contact details and confirm timing questions with them directly, since they know the arrangements at their end. If you are unsure whether the destination has steps, a lift or particular opening hours, raise those questions with the people there and note the answers for your own planning.
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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.