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.
Measuring bulky items in advance
Start by deciding which items are genuinely bulky, then take a tape measure to each one before you enquire. Record the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, desks or any flat-packed furniture, and note whether anything can be separated into smaller parts, such as a bed frame with removable legs. Where an item keeps its shape, write down the measurements next to its name on paper so nothing gets overlooked later. If you are collecting goods from a shop or a seller, ask them for the boxed dimensions in writing rather than estimating from a photograph. A short list of figures gives the team something concrete to work from, and it lets you flag any awkward shapes early in the conversation instead of discovering them on hire day.
Keeping a clear load inventory
A load inventory is simply a written list of everything travelling in the van, and building one early saves repeated trips back and forth to check. Group the entries by room, by job or by collection point, then count the boxes, bags and loose items in each group. Mark anything fragile, anything with detachable parts, and anything you plan to hand over to someone else at the far end. Note down the recipient's name and phone number for deliveries, along with any reference numbers attached to the goods. If the inventory changes as packing continues, update the list rather than relying on memory. A current copy also makes it easier to confirm that everything has reached its destination when you report back afterwards.
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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.