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.
Recording Bulky Item Dimensions
Your first task when planning a load is often to work out what you are actually moving and how big each piece is. Go through your list and measure anything bulky, recording the length, width and height for each item. Where furniture has removable parts, note whether these come off and how the item changes once dismantled. For things stored in boxes or bags, a rough size still helps build an overall picture. If some items belong to other people, ask them for measurements rather than guessing on their behalf. Keep your notes together so you can refer to them when speaking with the team, since accurate figures make it easier to discuss vehicle options. Think also about whether anything on your list is flexible in shape or rigid, as this may affect how you describe the load when enquiring about availability.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
If your hire involves moving hobby equipment, start by deciding what the collection really needs. Whether it is model railways, camping gear, musical instruments or sports kit, list each item with its case or box dimensions and note anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. Consider whether any piece normally travels in a dedicated container and whether that container adds to the overall size. Record where each item is stored now and where it needs to end up, with contact details for anyone receiving equipment at the far end. If the gear belongs to a club or several people, agree who is responsible for each piece during the journey. These notes give you a clear record to share with the team when discussing dates and vehicle options, and they help you ask informed questions about what might suit your particular collection.
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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.