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.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings Clearly
Start your preparation with a written inventory of everything going into boxes. Rather than vaguely noting 'kitchen stuff', itemise each carton by room and contents, and count the total number so you can quote a figure when you enquire. Note which boxes are fragile and which contain heavy items such as books or tools, purely as information for your own planning. If some cartons are unusually large, measure their length, width and height and add the figures to your list. Keeping this record on your phone or on paper means you can update it as packing continues, and it gives the hire team a precise picture of what you need to carry when they help match the job to a van.
Measuring the Bulky Pieces
Alongside the boxes, the larger items deserve their own set of notes. Take a tape measure to each sofa, wardrobe, dining table, appliance or mattress and record the height, width and depth, checking whether legs or doors can be removed and noting which pieces cannot be dismantled at all. If any item has an awkward shape, such as a corner sofa or a L-shaped desk, describe that on your list too. These figures are simply information to share when you ask for a quote, helping the discussion about whether a small van, Transit or Luton fits the job. Keep the measurements with your box inventory so everything sits in one place, ready to read out or send across when the team asks.
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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.