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.
Which Bulky Items Need Measuring First
Before anything else, decide which items in your load are the ones worth measuring. Usually these are the long or wide pieces, such as sofas, mattresses, shelving units or lengths of timber, though anything that seems close to a limit deserves a tape measure too. Record each item's length, width and height, and note whether it can be dismantled, since a bed frame in pieces presents differently to one left whole. If furniture must pass through a narrow doorway or stairwell, measure the clearance at that end as well. Write the figures next to each item name so nothing gets mixed up. When you ask the team about van options, these measurements form part of what you tell them about the job.
Listing Boxed Belongings Clearly
For a load made up mainly of boxes, a clear written list is often the most useful thing you can prepare. Count the boxes by size, for example twelve small, six medium and three large, and note any that are unusually heavy or contain fragile contents. If some boxes are going to storage and others to a new address, split the list by destination so the plan stays clear. It can also help to label boxes with numbers that match the list, giving you a simple way to check that everything arrives. Where a recipient is meeting you at the far end, record their contact details too. This list supports your conversation with the team about what you need to carry and the access arrangements involved.
Explore other van hire areas
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.