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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Start with a written list of everything the van needs to carry. Note each item in plain terms - two sofas, a fridge, six boxes of books, a workbench - rather than relying on memory on the day. Against every entry, add anything that affects the job: whether an item comes apart, whether it belongs to a customer or to you, and whether anything is fragile. If some things are staying behind, mark them clearly so the list reflects only what is travelling. It is also worth recording where each item is headed if the trip involves more than one drop-off, along with a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods. Once the inventory is complete, the open questions for the team concern which van size suits the list and how the hire dates line up with your plans.
Measuring Bulky Items
Large pieces deserve their own set of notes. For each bulky item, write down the length, width and height, and re-measure anything you are unsure about rather than estimating. If furniture has legs, handles or a headboard that could be removed, note the dimensions both with and without those parts, since the difference can matter when a vehicle group is suggested. Record any awkward shapes too - an L-shaped sofa or a wardrobe with a deep cornice - and mention whether items will fit through the doorways and corridors at the collection point, as far as you know. Where a recipient is expecting a delivery, keep their contact details to hand. The remaining questions to ask concern which vans are available on your dates and whether the access arrangements you have described suit the vehicle suggested.
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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.