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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
If your van hire is for hobby equipment, start by listing each item you plan to move and its dimensions. A sailing dinghy mast, model railway boards or a set of DJ speakers all present different questions, and writing down the length, width and height of the bulkiest pieces gives the team something to assess against the available options. Note whether anything comes apart, whether cases or bags are rigid, and how many trips you expect to make. If a third party will receive the equipment at the far end, record their contact number and any agreed handover time. When you ask for a quote, you can also raise any open questions about access at the destination, though the site contact is best placed to answer those directly.
Organising a Household Move
A household move benefits from a written inventory before you book anything. Walk through each room and note the furniture, boxes and awkward pieces, along with approximate sizes for the largest items. If you are collecting second-hand furniture or dropping items at a storage unit, add those addresses and the opening hours you have been given. Think about your preferred dates and whether a weekday or weekend would suit better, since this shapes what you ask the team to check. Where a friend or relative will receive goods at the new address, keep their phone number to hand. When you enquire, you can ask which van types they expect to have available and whether your proposed timetable leaves room for delays, leaving any final decisions until you have the details.
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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.