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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before choosing a van size, the first decision worth making is which items are genuinely bulky and which can be broken down. A wardrobe, a sofa or a dining table will usually dictate the vehicle you need, so take a tape measure and note the length, width and height of each large piece, including any parts that stick out such as legs, arms or handles. Record these figures in the same units throughout, and note whether anything can be dismantled, along with whether you have kept the tools or fixings to do so. If an item came flat-packed, check whether the original dimensions still apply once assembled. When you ask for a quote, share the full list of measurements and flag anything unusually shaped, since awkward angles can matter as much as raw numbers.
Listing Boxed Belongings for the Move
Boxes deserve a written list of their own, separate from your furniture tally. Start by counting how many you expect and noting what each group contains, such as kitchenware, books or clothing, since this helps you decide which ones travel first and which can wait for a later run if needed. Record the approximate size of the boxes as well, because a stack of small cartons behaves differently in a van from a few oversized ones. Mark any box containing fragile items so it is identifiable on the day, and keep a separate note of essentials you want immediate access to, such as documents, chargers or medication. When requesting a quote, mention the estimated box count alongside the furniture list, and ask whether anything about your dates or quantities might affect the vehicle the team suggests.
Explore other van hire areas
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.