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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start with a written inventory of everything going on the van. Group the list by room or by job, perhaps kitchen boxes, wardrobe bags, tools and furniture, and note a quantity beside each line so nothing is counted twice or missed. For anything with an awkward shape, record the longest dimension and, where you can, the height and depth as well; a sofa measured at length only leaves questions open. Photographs of large pieces can help the team understand what you mean. Add the access arrangements at each address, including any lifts, gates or time windows. When you ask for a quote, send the list rather than a summary; specific figures let the team match the job to the right van.
Listing Boxed Belongings Clearly
If your load is mainly boxed, the details worth writing down are the box count and the size of each batch. Note how many are book cartons, how many are large moving boxes, and whether any contain fragile items you want to track personally. List the loose pieces that will not box, such as lamps, a vacuum or pictures, with rough sizes. Mark which boxes go to which destination if the load splits between a new home and a storage unit, and record the opening hours of the storage site. Keep a contact number for anyone receiving goods at the far end. When requesting a price, state the totals plainly; a clear box count and destination list gives the team something concrete to work from.
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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.