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 Bulky Items Before You Book
Your first decision when hiring a van is often which size to ask for, and that starts with a tape measure. Walk through your home or workplace and record the height, width and depth of each large item, from wardrobes and sofas to workbenches and rolled carpets. Note anything that cannot be tilted or turned, such as a mirror-fronted cabinet, and measure it in the position it will travel. Where furniture comes apart, decide in advance whether you will dismantle it and note the dimensions of the resulting pieces. Photograph awkward shapes so you can describe them accurately over the phone. With this list to hand, the team can advise which vehicle group suits your load, and you can ask whether the dates you want are still open before making firm arrangements.
Keeping a Load Inventory You Can Trust
A written inventory turns a scattered job into something you can brief in a single call. List every item you intend to move, grouped by room or by owner if the load belongs to several people, and give each entry a brief description plus its measurements. Note fragile pieces separately and record anything with sentimental value so it is easy to identify later. If tools, boxes or bags are involved, count them and jot down the total. Decide who will check items off at each end, and add a column for ticks as things are gathered. When you contact the team, this inventory lets you state your needs precisely, ask which vehicle groups could carry the listed items, and confirm the hire dates and any access details the booking requires.
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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.