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.
Will You Have Helpers on the Day?
The answer shapes much of your planning, so decide it early. Write down who has offered to help, when each person is available, and whether their availability covers the whole job or only part of it. Note their contact numbers and any commitments that mean they must leave by a certain time. If helpers are coming from different addresses, record where each will meet you and at what time. It is also worth agreeing in advance who will be at the destination to receive items and take a phone call if timings move. Questions that follow include whether the hire period should cover a longer day to match everyone's availability, and who steps in if someone drops out before the date arrives.
Measuring Entrances and Awkward Items
Which measurements matter? Start with the items themselves: note the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, and whether any have protruding handles or feet that add to their footprint. Then turn to the spaces they must pass through, recording the width and height of doorways, corridors, stairwells and any lift at either end of the journey. If a gate, archway or shared entrance sits on the route, measure that too and note any restrictions on its use. Keep the figures together so you can share them when discussing the job, since the team can talk through how the dimensions relate to the van options available.
Explore other van hire areas
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.