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.
Measuring Entrances and Items
Will your largest item actually pass through the space it needs to? Before requesting a quote, take a tape measure to the entrances involved, including doorways, corridors, garden gates and any lift or stairwell the item must travel through. Record the height, width and depth of each opening, and compare these against the dimensions of the bulkiest things you plan to move, such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches. Note whether doors open fully or only partway, and whether there are tight corners, low ceilings or steps along the route. If an item can be dismantled, write down which parts separate and whether fixings will be needed to reassemble it. Having these figures to hand means the team can discuss which vehicle option suits the load, and it flags any awkward measurements while there is still time to adjust the plan.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who needs to be present, and when, for your van hire to run smoothly? Make a list of everyone helping with the job, along with their mobile numbers and the times they have agreed to attend. If helpers are only available for part of the day, note the window each person can manage so you can sequence the work around them. Record who will be at the collection address to open doors, and who will receive items at the destination, including their contact details in case timings slip. Confirm whether any building or site requires advance notice of a van arrival, and whether permits or passes must be arranged beforehand. If children or pets will be around, decide early who supervises them. Sharing these arrangements with the team when you book keeps everyone's expectations aligned and highlights any gaps that still need resolving.
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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.