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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
What exactly is going in the van? Answer that on paper before anything else. Create an inventory listing each item or group of items: six medium boxes from the study, one wardrobe, two bicycles, a rolled carpet, and so on. Count everything rather than estimating, since boxes have a habit of multiplying between the initial plan and the move itself. Mark which items are fragile, which are awkwardly shaped, and which belong to a particular room or delivery address if the load is being split. Note whether anything might be added at the last minute, such as items from a relative's house. A complete inventory lets the team judge whether a small van, Transit, Luton or dropside suits the job, and it gives you a checklist to work through on the day.
Checking Entrances and Item Dimensions
Alongside the inventory, record the dimensions of the largest items you plan to move. Measure the length, width and height of sofas, wardrobes, appliances and any flat-pack furniture that has been assembled, and write the figures beside each entry. If you are unsure about access at the destination, the person receiving the items is the right contact to ask, so note their phone number and any questions you want to put to them. Recording these measurements early means you can flag anything unusual when requesting a quote rather than discovering a problem later. An item you cannot measure precisely is worth estimating and marking as approximate on your list.
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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.