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.
Listing Equipment Before You Book
Start with what you actually intend to transport. If the trip involves hobby equipment, such as sailing gear, camping kit, model railway boards or a set of tools for a club event, write down each item before you contact the team. Then measure anything that seems awkward: the length of a kayak, the height of a folded tent, the footprint of a workbench. Note whether items come apart, whether they have protruding handles or wheels, and whether any case or bag has unusual proportions. These details matter more than a rough guess at volume. With a written inventory and dimensions to hand, you can ask which van option suits the load and whether the dates you have in mind work, rather than starting the conversation with an open-ended question.
Measuring Items You Are Unsure About
Some loads are easy to describe and others are not, and the awkward ones benefit from a tape measure. For furniture, appliances or boxed equipment, record the length, width and height of each piece as it stands, and note whether packaging adds anything to those figures. If an item is currently in a loft, a garage or another property, ask the owner to measure it and send photos if you cannot visit in person. Note any narrow doorways, tight corners or steps involved at either end, since these can be as relevant as the item itself. When you pass the measurements and access notes to the team, they have something concrete to work from when suggesting a van for your dates.
Explore other van hire areas
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.