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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Which measurements are worth taking before you request a van? Start with the items themselves: note the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, and record any that come apart into sections. Then turn to the destinations, writing down the widths of doorways, corridors and stair turns at both ends of the journey, along with any lift dimensions if one is involved. Where a measurement is uncertain, mark it clearly rather than guessing, and photograph awkward items so you can describe them accurately. If a number looks marginal, note the question and raise it with the team, who can discuss which vehicle options exist. Access arrangements at each address belong in the same set of notes.
Organising a Household Move on Paper
If the hire is for a full house move, a written plan covering more than the van itself will keep the day coherent. List each room's contents separately, noting which boxes go to which address if the move involves storage as well as a new home. Record the contact details for anyone at either property, including agents, key holders and the person receiving delivered furniture, so a question on the day can be answered quickly. Note the hire dates alongside any related bookings, such as a cleaning visit or a meter reading appointment, to spot clashes. Points you have not settled, like a parking arrangement at the new address, can be listed as open questions for the relevant contact.
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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.