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.
How Do You Check Entrance and Item Dimensions?
How do you know whether your items will pass through the spaces involved? Start by measuring each large piece at its widest and tallest points, including any packaging, and write the figures alongside a short description on one list. Then note the dimensions of the doorways, corridors, lifts or gates at both the collection point and the destination, if you can obtain them. Where a measurement is uncertain, mark it as approximate rather than guessing. Pass the full list to the team with your enquiry, along with the access arrangements, and they can suggest which van from the available options suits the job. If any figure changes before the hire, send an update so the record stays accurate.
Planning a Move with Boxed Belongings
If your load is mainly boxed, an inventory built before the hire date gives you something to work from. Count the boxes, note their approximate sizes, and label which room each one belongs to, which helps whoever sorts them at the other end. Record any fragile or unusually shaped items separately, along with a contact number for the person receiving the delivery, in case a question comes up on the day. Decide in advance the order of dates, the access arrangements at both ends, and whether anything might be added or removed from the list before you travel. When you send this information with your request, the team can match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
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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.