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.
Noting Entrance and Item Sizes
Which measurements should you gather before asking for a van? Start with the largest items on your list. A tape measure and a few minutes are enough to record the height, width and depth of each piece of furniture or equipment, plus any parts that detach. If two people could not lift an item easily, noting that fact is worth including. Then think about the spaces involved: the doorway, corridor and stair widths at both ends of the journey, plus any gates or fences the van may need to pass. If a collection point has restricted opening hours or a specific loading area, note the details and a contact name. Passing these figures and access notes to the team when you enquire lets them discuss which van options might suit, and any gaps in your measurements can be checked before the booking is settled.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
What does moving hobby gear involve beyond the obvious? Equipment such as bikes, model aircraft, kayaks or workshop tools often comes in awkward shapes rather than heavy boxes, so a written inventory with dimensions for each piece gives you something solid to work from. Note whether anything dismantles, how many separate parts there are and which items need keeping dry or protected from knocks. If you are collecting from a club, shop or another member, record their address, available times and a phone number in case plans shift. Consider the return leg as well: where the equipment will live once home, and whether future trips might need a different arrangement. When requesting a quote, ask which van sizes could carry the full list, whether the dates you have in mind are workable and what information the team would find useful from you.
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.