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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Moving Hobby Equipment Without Guesswork
The first decision to make is what actually needs to travel. If you are shifting hobby equipment, whether that is a canoe, model railway boards, camping gear or a set of tools for a club workshop, list every item before you contact anyone. Note down the longest, widest and tallest dimensions of each piece, and include anything awkward such as roof bars, stands or folding tables that could be forgotten. Record whether any item comes apart, since a dismantled load may present a different shape to a whole one. Add the hire dates you have in mind and how many people will be involved in the trip. With that information written out, you can ask the team which van sizes suit the list and whether anything on it raises questions worth settling before you book.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Accurate measurements save a lot of back-and-forth, so it is worth taking a tape to the larger pieces rather than estimating. Work through each bulky item in turn, recording its length, height and depth, and note any protruding handles, wheels or packaging that adds to the overall size. If something will be boxed or wrapped, measure it in that state, not bare. Keep the figures together with the quantity of each item, so a note such as three crates at ninety by sixty centimetres is clear at a glance. You might also record which pieces are flexible in terms of orientation and which are not. When you request a quote, include the full measurement list and your preferred dates, and ask whether any item needs particular attention when the vehicle group is chosen.
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Last checks 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.