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.
Weighing Up One Trip Against Several
Before requesting a quote, it helps to decide whether you intend to complete the whole job in one outing or spread it across several. A single trip means noting one set of dates, one destination and a firm list of everything that must travel together. Several trips give you room to separate items by urgency, perhaps taking essentials first and leaving non-urgent pieces for a later date, but each run adds its own booking window to arrange. Sketch both versions on paper: total dates needed, the address or addresses involved, and whether any recipient expects goods at a particular time. You can then ask the team which van size suits each version and whether hiring once for a longer period or booking separate shorter hires works out as the more practical arrangement for your circumstances.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Measuring bulky items in advance turns a vague request into a clear one. Take a tape to each large piece and record its length, width and height, including any protruding parts such as handles, feet or packaging you plan to keep on during transit. Note the count of each item type rather than describing the load generally, so a quote can be matched to a specific van from the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options. If something can be dismantled, write down the dimensions of the largest resulting component instead of the assembled piece. Keep the measurements with your list of hire dates and access notes, and mention any item that seems unusually shaped, since the team can only advise properly when they know exactly what you intend to carry.
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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.