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.
Writing a Load Inventory Before Booking
Start by writing down everything you plan to carry, grouped by where it currently sits: house, garage, workshop or storage unit. Against each entry, note the approximate dimensions of larger items such as bookcases, white goods or rolled carpets, and mark anything awkward in shape. Record the hire dates, the access arrangements at each end, and a contact name and number for whoever receives the goods if you will not be present. This inventory lets you describe the job precisely when the team matches it to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Questions you might ask include whether the listed items point towards a particular vehicle and whether any entries need clarifying before a price is confirmed.
Transporting Hobby Equipment by Van
Hobby gear often deserves its own notes, because shapes and sizes vary widely. If you are moving sailing kit, model railway boards, musical instruments, gardening tools or workshop machinery, measure each item's length, width and height, and record those figures alongside your main inventory. Note whether any equipment comes in multiple parts, how many bags or cases it involves, and whether anything is temperature-sensitive or needs handling with care. Decide the hire dates around when the equipment must reach its destination, and note a contact there who can receive it. You can then ask the team which van options suit the dimensions you have listed, and raise any further questions before the arrangement is confirmed.
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.