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.
Sequencing What You Are Carrying
If your trip involves several stops, sketch out the order in which items will be needed. Write each destination on a separate line, followed by what is being dropped off or picked up there, the quantity of each item and the name and number of the person expecting it. Where an item has an unusual size, such as a wardrobe or a length of timber, note its measurements next to the entry. This record helps you see at a glance which stops could be combined if the day runs long, and which ones have fixed time windows you need to respect. If a recipient has given specific instructions about where goods should be left, add those too. A written sequence is easier to check against than memory, especially when a working day starts early and finishes late.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Measuring before you book saves a great deal of guesswork. Take a tape to the largest items on your list and record their height, width and depth, then measure the openings they must pass through at both ends of the journey, including doorways, gates, corridors and any lifts involved. If a sofa or a fridge is close to the size of a particular opening, that is information you want in advance rather than on the day. Note ceiling heights in stairwells and the width of any narrow passages, and add anything still unmeasured to a list you can work through. Ask the site contacts at each destination to confirm their own measurements rather than relying on estimates. Passing accurate figures to the team lets you discuss vehicle options with real numbers in front of you.
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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.