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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Start with a written inventory before you ring for a quote. Work through the property or job in order and note each item: number of boxes, furniture pieces, tools, materials or appliances, with approximate dimensions for anything bulky. Record the hire dates, including the earliest start and latest finish you could manage, and whether the job might stretch over more than one day. Note a contact name and number at the destination, so access arrangements can be confirmed when the team asks. If someone else will receive goods on your behalf, add their details to the same list. The inventory also gives you a clear basis for questions: whether the items you have listed match a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and what to do if the list grows after the quote.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Alongside the inventory, note the measurements that could affect the job. Record the height, width and depth of the largest items, and the dimensions of any entrances, corridors, doorways or gates they must pass through, based on what you can establish yourself. Where a destination is managed by someone else, ask that contact about access on your behalf, since they hold the facts about parking, gates or restricted hours. Write down the dates you need the van and any time window for collection or delivery, and note the total number of bags or boxes expected. When discussing a quote, ask whether the vehicle options available suit the item sizes you have recorded, and raise any uncertainty early so the open points are settled before the hire begins.
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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.