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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before Your Enquiry
The decision to measure your largest items before anything else can save a lot of back-and-forth, because dimensions often determine whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van is the sensible match. Take a tape to each bulky piece, including wardrobes, sofas, mattresses and desks, and write down the height, width and depth as separate figures. Note whether items come apart, whether feet or handles add extra depth, and whether any piece was carried into the building assembled, which suggests it may not leave the same way. Record the quantity of each item type and mark anything with an awkward shape. Keep the measurements with your notes for the enquiry, and ask the team how best to describe unusual pieces. If an item seems borderline on size, mention that rather than rounding down, since an honest dimension list helps the discussion about which vehicle group fits the job.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends, family or colleagues have offered to help, coordinating them in advance usually works better than arranging things on the morning itself. Start a simple list of who is available, at what time and at which address, then note any gaps where nobody is around. Record the phone number for each helper and for anyone at the destination, such as a neighbour receiving furniture or a site contact expecting a delivery. Decide who holds the keys to each property and where they will be, and note the expected start and finish times so helpers can plan their day. Ask whether anyone can only stay for part of the job, and build that into your schedule.
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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.