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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Before choosing a van size, you might find it useful to walk around your home or storeroom with a tape measure and note the dimensions of the largest items. Record the length, width and height of each sofa, wardrobe, desk or appliance, and add a note for anything awkward such as a protruding handle or a removable leg. If an item is currently boxed, measure the box rather than guessing. Photographs can help you remember details later when speaking to the team. Once you have the figures, compare your tallest and longest pieces against the list of what you need to carry, and include those measurements in your enquiry along with the hire dates and access arrangements, so the team can match the job to a suitable option.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
A written inventory is one of those small tasks that can make a hire enquiry far more straightforward. Start by listing every item you plan to move, room by room or job by job, and mark anything fragile, valuable or oddly shaped. Note quantities too, so six chairs appear as six rather than a vague guess. If some things are destined for different addresses, perhaps a storage unit and a friend's flat, group the list by drop-off point and note a contact for each recipient. Keep the inventory with your hire dates and access notes, and refer to it when you ask the team about matching a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van to the work.
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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.