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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Write down your load first
Start by listing everything you expect to move, room by room or job by job, before you contact the team. Note the largest items, roughly how many boxes or bags you have, and anything awkward such as long lengths of timber or a rolled mattress. A written inventory lets you describe the job clearly and helps the team suggest a suitable body type from the range available. It also gives you a checklist on the day, so nothing gets left behind at a property or a supplier's yard. If the list changes between enquiry and collection, mention the additions when you pick up the keys so the vehicle still suits the load.
Measure entrances and awkward items
Alongside the inventory, measure the items that will decide whether a van works for you: the sofa, the wardrobe, the workbench or whatever is largest. Then think about the spaces they must pass through, including doorways, hallways, stairwells and any lift at either end of the journey. If a gate, alley or parking bay at the collection or drop-off point is tight, say so when you enquire, because access shapes which vehicle is sensible for the job. Where you are unsure about a measurement or a route detail, the recipient or property contact is the best person to ask, and you can pass what you learn on to the team.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.