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 bulky items before you enquire
Before choosing a van size, the most valuable thing you can do is measure the items you plan to move. Note the length, width and height of each piece, including any parts that stick out such as handles, feet or removable legs, and record the figures in centimetres or inches consistently. If something can be taken apart, mention that too, since a bed frame in pieces presents differently from one that is assembled. Photographs of awkward shapes can be useful to refer back to when you are filling in a quote request. Alongside the dimensions, keep a simple count of boxes and loose items. The team can then discuss which van option fits the load, subject to availability, and you avoid the guesswork of estimating by eye.
Moving hobby and leisure equipment
If your hire involves hobby gear rather than household goods, a short inventory works just as well. Consider what you are transporting: tents and camping kit, sports bags, musical instruments, model railway boards or cycling equipment all have particular shapes that are worth recording. Measure the longest single item, note whether anything comes in a hard case, and jot down the total number of pieces so nothing is overlooked when you make your enquiry. Access arrangements at both ends matter as well, so if you are collecting equipment from a shop, a club store or another person's address, have their contact details to hand and confirm the pickup window with them directly. Any questions about where the van can be parked or unloaded should go to whoever manages that site.
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.