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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
The first decision many customers face is which items actually need to travel in the van, and that starts with a tape measure. Note the height, width and depth of each large piece, whether that is a wardrobe, a sofa or a chest freezer, and write the figures beside the item on your list. If something dismantles, record both the assembled and flat-packed measurements, since the smaller figures may influence which vehicle you consider. Do not forget items that live in awkward spots, such as a piano on an upper floor or a workbench in a garage, as their dimensions are easy to overlook. Once you have the numbers, you can share them with the team when asking about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and any questions about whether a particular vehicle suits your list can be raised at that point.
Checking Entrances and Item Dimensions
Dimensions matter beyond the items themselves, so it pays to record the spaces they must pass through. Measure doorways, hallways, staircases and any gates or arches on the route, and compare these figures with your item list before booking anything. If a piece of furniture only clears a doorway by a small margin, note that down, since it may affect whether you dismantle it beforehand. Where furniture is coming from a shop or a seller's home, ask them for the relevant measurements rather than estimating, and record the contact details of whoever is supplying or receiving each item in case you need to confirm arrangements on the day. Questions about access at the destination itself, such as parking or entry restrictions, are best directed to the contact at that address, so keep their number to hand.
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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.