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.
Listing boxed belongings before you book
The first thing to write down is a simple count of your boxes, grouped by what is inside them. If you are moving boxed belongings, note how many you have, their approximate sizes, and whether any contain fragile items you want to keep track of separately. A numbered list, matched to labels on the boxes themselves, gives you something to check against at each end of the journey. Record too which boxes need to reach which address, in case the trip involves more than one drop-off. When you request a quote, you can share the totals, ask which van options the team would suggest for that volume, and confirm whether any items need separate arrangements. Anything you have not counted yet is worth flagging as an estimate.
Measuring entrances and awkward items
Which measurements should you gather before enquiring? Start with the items themselves: note the height, width and depth of any furniture or large pieces, and jot down whether anything comes apart. Then think about the spaces they must pass through. Doorway, corridor and stairwell widths at both the collection point and the destination are all worth recording, along with any lifts and their internal dimensions if relevant. If you are unsure about access at an address you do not manage, the people based there are the right ones to ask about entrances, gates or parking arrangements. When you contact the team for a quote, include these figures and your hire dates, and ask any remaining questions about matching the load to the available vans.
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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.