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.
One trip or several: deciding early
A key decision before requesting a quote is whether you plan a single run or several shorter ones. If everything can travel together, note the full inventory and the dates involved. If you expect to make repeat journeys, record how many trips you anticipate and roughly when each would happen, since this affects how long you keep the van. Think about which items genuinely need to move and which could wait, stay behind or be passed on. Write down the access arrangements at each end, including any gates, parking limits or time windows, and note who will be present to receive items. Once you have both scenarios sketched out, you can ask the team to price a single longer hire against shorter bookings and compare the answers before committing.
Measuring bulky items accurately
Before you settle on a van type, take a tape measure to your largest items and record the numbers. For each piece, note the length, width and height at the widest points, including any handles, feet or protruding parts that add to the footprint. If something can be separated into parts, such as a bed frame or a shelving unit, measure the individual components and note how many there are. Keep the list with your other hire notes so it is ready when you contact the team. Photographs can also help you describe awkward shapes. If a measurement leaves you unsure whether an item will be manageable, say so when asking for a quote, and flag anything unusually long, tall or irregular so the team can talk through the options available.
Explore other van hire areas
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.