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.
Measuring Entrances and Awkward Items
Will that wardrobe actually fit through the front door? Measuring each large item answers the question before anyone arrives with a van. Note the height, width and depth of furniture, appliances and boxes, then compare them with doorway, corridor and stair measurements at both ends of the journey. Record anything that comes apart, such as legs or shelves, and whether you intend to dismantle it. If an item will not pass through an interior door, note the alternative route you have in mind. Pass these figures to the team with your hire dates, and raise any question about which van size matches your list so you can weigh up the options together.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A running inventory is one of the most useful documents you can prepare for a hire. List every item you plan to move, room by room, including boxes, bags and loose pieces, and give each a brief description plus a number. Photographing valuable or fragile pieces before the day creates a record you can refer to if anything is questioned later. Keep the list to hand during collection and delivery so you can tick items off as they are handed over or placed in storage. If the inventory grows while you are still planning, update the count and send the revised version with your quote request, because the vehicle the team suggests depends on what you say you are carrying.
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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.