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 Enquire
The decision to measure before you call is one that saves a lot of back-and-forth. Take a tape measure to each large item, whether that is a wardrobe, a fridge, a sofa or a workbench, and write down the height, width and depth in centimetres. Note anything that comes apart, such as a bed frame or a table with removable legs, and record the dimensions both assembled and disassembled if you plan to take it to pieces. Do not forget the awkward shapes, like rolled carpets, ladders or bicycles, and add a note about any packaging you intend to use. With this list written out, you can describe the load precisely when you contact the team, and they can talk through which van options might suit the job and the dates you have in mind.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Another decision to think through is whether you would rather move everything in a single outing or spread it across a few shorter runs. To compare the two, list everything that must travel, then split it into what is needed urgently and what can wait. Note the distance involved, the hours you have available, and whether anyone at the destination needs to receive items on a particular day, along with their contact number. If you choose several trips, think about where items will be kept between runs, perhaps a garage or a friend's hallway, and record what has already been moved so nothing is forgotten. There is no universally right answer, but having the comparison written down lets you discuss the options, timings and van choice with the team before booking.
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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.