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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
One decision shapes everything else: whether the furniture you are moving has been measured. Take a tape to each large piece, noting its length, width and depth, and record whether it comes apart, along with the tools or fixings needed if it does. Write the figures against each item name so you can read them out when discussing the vehicle groups with the team. Where a piece is being delivered to someone else, add that person's address and phone number to the same list, and note any time window they have specified. Questions about door widths, gates or lifts at their end should be asked of them directly, so it is worth confirming those details during the planning stage rather than leaving gaps in your notes when you come to request a quote.
Moving Boxed Belongings
Boxed loads are easier to plan once every carton has been counted and described. Go through your home or storage unit and note the number of boxes, their approximate sizes, and which rooms they came from, since that helps you keep track at the other end. Record any unusual items sitting alongside the boxes, such as a vacuum cleaner, a floor lamp or a set of shelving, and mark boxes containing fragile contents if you already know which ones they are. Add your hire dates and the access arrangements you have been given for both ends of the move. If storage is involved, keep the facility's contact details with your notes, because opening hours and unit access are questions for the facility. You can then ask the team how your box count fits with the van options available and raise anything still unresolved.
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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.