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 Entrances and Items
Do you know the actual dimensions of everything you plan to move? Before requesting a van, measure the height, width and depth of each large item and write the figures on the same list as its name. Note whether anything can be separated into smaller pieces, and record the dimensions of those pieces separately if so. Next, think about the spaces the items must pass through, including doorways, corridors and gates at both ends of the journey, and jot those measurements down too. Where a measurement is uncertain, mark it clearly rather than guessing. Questions about access at the delivery end belong with the destination contact, so ask them directly and keep their answers alongside your notes. Your completed list then supports a clear enquiry about dates and vehicle options.
Listing Boxed Belongings
How many boxes are you actually dealing with? Rather than estimating, count each one and note its approximate size, whether it is a small book carton or a larger tea chest. Keep a running total as you pack, and group the count by room so you can see at a glance how the load splits between kitchen, lounge and bedroom items. Flag anything fragile with a symbol next to its entry, and note any box that needs to stay upright. If some items are destined for different addresses, record the recipient and their phone number against each group. This list then becomes the reference you use when discussing sizes and dates, and it can be updated whenever the numbers change before collection day.
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.