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 book
Your first decision when preparing a van hire request is which items actually need to travel, and that starts with a tape measure. Note the height, width and depth of each large piece, whether that is a wardrobe, a fridge or a rolled rug, and record the figures rather than relying on memory. If an item comes apart, measure both the assembled and dismantled versions, since the difference can matter when a vehicle group is suggested. Check whether anything has awkward protrusions such as legs, handles or spouts that add to the overall dimensions. If furniture will pass through a doorway or corridor at either end, measure those gaps too and keep the numbers alongside the item list. These recorded measurements give the team something concrete to work with when matching your load to a van.
Keeping a clear load inventory
Alongside measurements, a written inventory of everything going on the van is worth preparing before you ask for a quote. Work room by room or job by job, listing each item with a short description and, where useful, a note of its condition. Mark which pieces are essential and which could travel separately if space is tight. If the load includes fragile or oddly shaped objects, flag those on the list so they can be discussed. For business deliveries, note the recipient details and any contact numbers attached to each drop, since these may need to be shared or confirmed. Keep the inventory somewhere easy to reach during the planning process so you can refer back to it. A complete list also makes it simpler to spot if anything has been forgotten before the van is booked.
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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.