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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Before You Enquire
Start by deciding which items genuinely need measuring, since not everything in a load is obvious. Furniture, appliances, flat-packed boxes and anything with an awkward shape deserves a tape measure before you contact the team. Record each item's length, width and height in one list, and note anything that cannot be dismantled, such as a sofa with fixed arms or a wardrobe built in place. If a bed frame or table comes apart, write down the dimensions of the largest remaining piece rather than the assembled size. Those figures let the team judge which van size fits the job. Also note any items with protruding handles, legs or feet, since those details often change how much room a piece effectively occupies.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory of everything going on the van saves guesswork at every stage of planning. Group your list by room or by destination, depending on which makes more sense for your move or delivery, and mark items belonging to different people or addresses. Note fragile pieces separately and flag anything that needs to travel alone, such as a mirror or a pane of glass. If some items are still undecided, keep a column for 'maybe' entries so the list stays honest. Count boxes rather than estimating them, and update the list as things change. When you enquire, share the inventory with the team so they can match the job to a suitable van from the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options where available.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.