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.
Measuring items and entrances beforehand
Will everything actually fit through the openings involved? That question is worth raising before hire dates are fixed. Measure each large item, noting its length, width, height and any awkward features such as protruding handles or detachable legs, and write the figures against a simple list. Then consider the access at both ends of the trip: door widths, gateways, corridors and any lift dimensions if furniture is moving between floors, and note any items that come apart and the dimensions of the parts. Note the hire dates you have in mind and any deadline attached to the job, such as a collection window at a shop. Passing these measurements and access notes into your quote request gives the team something concrete to work with when matching a van to the task.
Moving hobby equipment by van
Suppose a weekend hobby demands transporting bulky gear, perhaps sailing kit, model aircraft, workshop tools or camping equipment for an event. Begin by listing every piece, then measure the largest items and note anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, such as masts, workbenches or display boards. Record whether any item breaks down into smaller parts and, if so, the dimensions of each. Think about the dates you need the van and whether the equipment is going to a single venue or several stops, and note the contact details of whoever receives it at the far end if someone else will be there. If access at the venue is uncertain, that is a question for the venue itself. Fold all of this into your enquiry so the team can suggest a suitable van type and confirm availability.
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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.