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.
Checking Access Before You Book
Will that sofa fit through the side gate? Measuring the entrances, doorways and passageways at both ends of the job answers this before the van arrives. Note the width and height of each opening, the narrowest turn on any stairwell, and whether lifts, if present, impose their own limits. It is equally useful to record the dimensions of the bulkiest items, such as wardrobes, three-piece suites or rolled carpets, so the figures sit side by side on one page. Where a destination is managed by someone else, their phone number or email allows you to confirm opening hours and any restrictions directly with them. Any measurements you cannot take in advance can be listed as open questions for the team when discussing the hire.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
A load inventory is simply a written record of everything that needs to travel. Start with the big pieces, then count the boxes by size, perhaps twelve medium and four large, and add loose items like lamps, bicycles or garden tools. Grouping the list by room or by delivery address helps if belongings are going to more than one place, and noting which items are fragile or high value lets you give them extra attention on the day. Recording the hire dates, the people to contact at each end and any time windows you are working within turns the inventory into a practical schedule. If the list is still growing, a column for pending items keeps the final version easy to update before you confirm the booking.
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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.