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 Book
Before choosing a van, the first decision worth making is which of your items are the bulkiest and how each one measures up. Take a tape measure to every large piece, recording height, width and depth at their widest points, including any handles, feet or protruding parts. Note whether anything can be dismantled, such as a bed frame or table legs, and write down the dimensions both assembled and taken apart if that applies. Count your boxes, bags and loose items as well, since the full list gives the team a clearer picture than a few headline measurements. If an item is an unusual shape, describe it when you enquire. Keep your notes to hand, because having exact figures ready makes it easier to discuss which vehicle options might suit your load.
Checking Entrances and Item Dimensions Together
Once your items are measured, the next choice is checking the spaces they must pass through at each end of the journey. Measure doorways, corridors, stairwells and lift openings at the collection and delivery addresses, and compare those figures against your item dimensions. Record anything that looks tight, and note any questions you have about access so you can raise them with the people responsible for each property. If the delivery address is not your own, contact the recipient and ask them to confirm entrance widths and any access constraints they know about, noting their name and number for follow-up. Write down your hire dates and any time limits at either address, such as reserved slots or restricted hours, and share all of this with the team when you request a quote, flagging anything unresolved as an open question.
Explore other van hire areas
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.