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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Up Before You Enquire
Your first task is to decide which bulky items are definitely going on the van, as this determines what you measure and record. Work through the list one piece at a time, taking height, width and depth for each, and note whether anything dismantles into smaller sections, such as a wardrobe that splits at the top or a dining table with detachable legs. Write down the collapsed size of folding items too, and flag anything with an unusual shape that does not fit standard measurements, like a curved mirror or a long set of ladders. Where an item has to pass through a narrow entrance or down a hallway, note the relevant doorway widths as well. Keeping these figures on a single sheet means you can answer questions about the load quickly and accurately when discussing which van suits the job.
Notes for Carrying Hobby Equipment
Equipment for pastimes often deserves a list of its own. Begin by grouping what you own into categories, perhaps camping gear, bicycles, fishing tackle, model railway boards or instruments, and then record the size of the biggest piece in each group. Note anything that travels in a dedicated bag or case, and anything that cannot be tilted or stacked, if the manufacturer or club guidance says so. Consider the destination as well: who will receive the equipment at the far end, and is there a contact number for them? If some items belong to other people, such as shared club kit, note whose they are and when they need collecting. These details are worth gathering before you ask about a van, because a clear account of what is travelling helps the conversation move straight to arrangements rather than back-and-forth questions about sizes.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.