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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything you plan to move, whether it is a single sofa or a full house's worth of boxes. Note each item briefly, add a rough count for grouped things such as boxes, bags or crates, and mark anything that seems awkward in shape or particularly large. If some pieces belong to different people or different destinations, label them on the list so nothing gets muddled later. An inventory also gives you something to read out when you call for a quote, which keeps the conversation focused on facts rather than guesses. You can revise the list as plans change, and a dated copy helps if you need to compare quotes or check what was agreed. Questions worth asking include whether the list affects the vehicle suggested.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Before requesting a quote, take a tape measure to the largest pieces you intend to carry and record the length, width and height of each one. Note anything that cannot be tilted, folded flat or separated into parts, and mention any item with an unusual shape, such as a corner sofa or a wardrobe with a fixed frame. If you still have the original packaging dimensions for flat-packed furniture, those numbers are worth jotting down too. Write the measurements next to the matching entries on your inventory so everything sits in one place. When you enquire, you can share these figures and ask which vehicle options they should be checked against, and whether any single item raises a question about the overall load plan.
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.