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.
Listing Boxed Belongings for the Move
Begin with a written list of every boxed item you expect to move. Note the number of boxes, an approximate size for each, and which room they belong to, since this helps you and the hire team picture the job. Mark any box containing fragile goods and set aside a separate line for loose items that will not fit in containers, such as rolled rugs or vacuum-packed bedding. If some boxes stay behind in storage, record that split too. Decide before the hire dates which boxes travel on which day if the move spans more than one. When you ask for a quote, include the total count and the access arrangements at each end, and raise any question about whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the load.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Measuring bulky items before you enquire gives the hire team something concrete to work with. Use a tape to record the length, width and height of each large piece, and note whether it can be separated into smaller parts, such as legs removed from a table or a bedframe split into sections. Write the measurements next to each item on your list rather than relying on memory, and add a note for anything with an unusual shape, like a corner sofa or a wardrobe with a protruding cornice. If an item came flat-packed, check the original box dimensions if you still have them. Share the full set of figures with your quote request, and ask which vehicle option the team would suggest for those dimensions.
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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.