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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Writing a Load Inventory
Before anything is packed, sit down and list every item that will travel in the van, working room by room or job by job. Against each entry, note its approximate size, whether it comes apart, and any protective wrapping it needs. Measure the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches, and record those dimensions separately, since they often determine which van sizes are worth discussing. Mark items going to different addresses, and note anything that might be left in storage rather than delivered. If the list is long, number the entries so you can refer to them when talking through options. A clear inventory also gives you something to check against at the end of the day, confirming that everything listed has arrived where it should.
Thinking Through the Unloading Order
Once you know what is going, it helps to note where each item will end up, since that shapes the order in which things are needed at the destination. Write down which room or area each piece belongs in, and list the items that will be wanted first, such as tools for a job or beds for the first night. Record who will be at the other end to receive the delivery, with a phone number, and whether they can open the property at the agreed time. If some items are being dropped at a second address, note the contact there too. These details can be raised with the team when arranging the hire, and any questions about access at the destination are best directed to the people based there.
Explore other van hire areas
Things to check 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.