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 You Book
Your first decision is often simply what to measure, and getting this right saves a lot of back-and-forth. Walk through the load and note each large item: a wardrobe, a sofa, a fridge or a stack of flat-pack boxes. For every piece, record the height, width and depth at the widest points, including any protruding handles, feet or packaging. If something can be dismantled, note both the assembled and taken-down dimensions, plus whether the fixings are accounted for. Count the smaller boxes and bags as well, since volume matters as much as the headline items. Keep this list on your phone so you can read it out when requesting a quote, and ask the team any questions about which figures they need.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
If part of the job involves collecting something you have bought, the seller is a key part of your preparation. Before the hire date, confirm the collection address, the earliest and latest times they can receive you, and a direct phone number for the day itself. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions and weight, and whether it comes apart, so your measurements reflect reality rather than a listing description. Find out whether the item is upstairs, in a garage or at a kerbside, and note anything they say about parking or entry arrangements at their end. Record all of this alongside your own load list. When you contact the team for a quote, these details help the conversation and flag any questions still open.
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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.