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.
Noting which items are needed first
If you are moving house, it is worth listing which boxes and belongings belong to which room before hire day arrives, so nothing is mislaid at the other end. Preparing a simple written list gives you something to refer to when the van pulls up, and it helps whoever meets you there. Note which furniture is going straight into position, which items are bound for storage, and whether anything is being passed on to a friend or a charity shop. If a collection involves items for several destinations, record the recipient details and a contact number for each. Sharing that list when you ask for a quote also helps the team picture the job.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Before settling on a van size, it pays to measure the largest things you plan to move and note the figures down. Sofa lengths, wardrobe heights and mattress sizes are the usual troublemakers, and a tape measure takes only a few minutes. Access matters just as much: check the width of doorways, garden gates, lifts and stairwells at both ends, and write those measurements alongside the items. If anything will need to be angled through a tight entrance, the numbers tell you whether that is worth attempting before the day. Ask the team which van sizes could take your longest items, and raise any entrance restrictions when you request a quote. Those details keep the whole arrangement grounded in fact rather than guesswork.
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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.