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.
Writing a Clear Load Inventory
Before anything goes near the van, put together a written list of everything you intend to move. Note each item by name and, where it helps, group them by room, job or delivery stop. For anything with an unusual shape, such as a wardrobe, ladder or rolled carpet, record the rough length, width and height so the figures are to hand later. Count the boxes rather than estimating, and mark which ones are fragile or contain small parts that could go missing. If the job involves collecting goods from a shop or a seller, note the collection reference and the name of the person expecting you. This inventory is also what you can send to the team when asking for a quote, since it lets them suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van based on facts rather than guesses.
Measuring Entrances and Awkward Items
Dimensions deserve a second pass before you commit to dates. Walk the route each large item will take and write down the width and height of any doorway, corridor, gate or stairwell it must pass through, including tight corners where a straight measurement does not tell the whole story. Then measure the items themselves, not just their footprint but their tallest point, and note whether anything can be dismantled, has detachable legs or comes apart into panels. If a third party controls the entrance, such as a storage facility or a shop's loading area, ask them directly about restrictions, opening hours and any paperwork they expect. Keep these figures with your inventory so that, when you contact the team about hire dates and access arrangements, every question can be answered from one set of notes.
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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.