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.
Measuring items and entrances first
Will your largest item actually pass through the spaces it must? That question is worth answering before anything is booked. Measure each key piece—length, width and height—and note any awkward features such as protruding handles or legs that cannot be removed. Then record the dimensions of doorways, corridors, gates and lifts at both ends of the journey, if you can obtain them. If a destination such as a storage site or shop is handling the collection, ask the contact there about opening hours, parking arrangements and any limits on vehicle size. Pass the full list of measurements and access notes to the team with your hire dates, and raise any item you are unsure about so the quote covers it properly.
Keeping track of boxed belongings
If boxes make up most of your load, a simple inventory keeps the move organised. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, then count the total and note roughly how many are large, medium or small. Keep documents, keys and chargers with you rather than packed away, and set aside a note of anything fragile so you can describe it accurately when you enquire. Decide which boxes go to which address if the trip involves more than one drop-off, and confirm who will be present at each end to receive them. When you request a quote, include the box count, any unusually shaped items and the hire dates, and ask whether anything on your list points to a different van option than you first expected.
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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.