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.
Write Down Every Boxed Item
Start with a pen and a numbered list of everything that will travel in boxes. For each entry, record what is inside, which room it came from, and whether the contents are fragile, since that note shapes later conversations about the job. Count the boxes as you seal them and update the total whenever another is added, because a figure from a week ago quickly goes stale. If some boxes are unusually shaped or larger than standard, note their dimensions beside the entry rather than describing them loosely. A numbered list also helps you track progress on the day itself, letting you tick items off as they reach the destination. The finished count and any size notes give the team a concrete picture when you discuss which van suits the work.
Keep a Running Load Inventory
Alongside the box list, maintain a broader inventory covering everything else going on the van: furniture, appliances, bags, loose tools and anything that will not fit a standard box. Give each item its own line with dimensions where you have them, and mark anything still undecided with a question mark so it stands out. Update the inventory as the plan develops, since items tend to appear and disappear between the first idea and the hire date. Once complete, the inventory doubles as a checklist for both ends of the job, letting you confirm nothing was left behind. Share the summary with the team during your booking conversation, and raise anything you are unsure about, such as items you have not yet measured, as open questions rather than estimates.
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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.