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.
Choosing Which Hobby Equipment Travels
The first decision is which pieces of equipment actually need to travel. Make a shortlist of the gear, perhaps bikes, a kayak, model railway boards or display stands, and mark each as essential or optional, because the final list shapes the van you ask about. Measure the longest items end to end and note whether any come apart into smaller sections. Count the boxes of accessories and loose tools that go with them, and record where the kit is heading: a show, a storage unit or a friend's garage. If someone receives the equipment at the far end, save their phone number. When you request a quote, send the shortlist with measurements so the team can match the job to the right van.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Measuring bulky items is worth doing before you commit to dates, so start there. For each large piece, record three figures: length, height and depth, plus the width of any doorways or stairwells it must pass through at either address. Note whether legs come off, whether mirrors fold and whether the item was originally delivered flat-packed. Write the measurements next to the item on your list rather than on a separate sheet, so nothing is mismatched. If two items must travel together, group them on the page. Keep a contact number for the person at the receiving address in case questions arise on the day. Present these figures when you ask for a quote; exact numbers help the team suggest the right van.
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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.