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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Will that sofa actually fit through the door? It is the question worth answering before anything else. Start by measuring your largest items: width, height and depth, and note any parts that detach, such as legs or shelves. Then measure the routes they must pass through, including door frames, stairwells, hallway corners and any lift openings at either end. If the collection point is a shop, storage unit or another person's house, record the entrance widths there too, since you may not have seen them yourself. Where a measurement is tight, flag it as a query rather than guessing. Pass the full set of figures to the team when you ask for a quote, and they can talk through whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches the job on your dates.
One Trip or Several: Weighing It Up
How many journeys are you prepared to make? If the total load is modest, a single outing in a smaller van might cover it; if the list runs long, one trip in a larger vehicle could be the alternative worth pricing. Sketch a rough itinerary with the collection and drop-off addresses, noting any stops in between and the time each leg might take. If goods are being received by someone else, write down their name and phone number so they can be reached if timings shift. Consider also when the van is needed across the day, whether a morning slot suffices or the whole day is required. Present both the single-trip and multi-trip ideas when requesting a quote, and ask which arrangement the team would suggest given the access details you have already gathered.
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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.