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.
Checking Item and Entrance Dimensions First
What should you measure before requesting a quote? Begin with your largest items: note the length, height and depth of each sofa, wardrobe or appliance, and record the figures in one place. Then think about the entrances involved. If a piece has to pass through a doorway, hallway or stairwell, the relevant internal measurements are worth confirming with the property contact, since they will know details a listing may not show. When you enquire, share both sets of numbers and the access arrangements, including any lift, ramp or narrow lane the van might need to reach. The team can then discuss which body size makes sense for the load you have described, and you can flag anything unusual, such as an item that cannot be tilted.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Keeping a simple inventory pays off however small the job seems. List every item you intend to carry, grouped by room or by delivery address if there are several, and mark anything fragile. A count of boxes, an estimate of their sizes, and a note of oddities such as bicycles or lengths of timber all help the team picture the load. If some things might be dropped from the list before the day, separate the definite from the possible. Where a job involves collecting furniture from a shop or a seller, note the collection reference and opening hours. Sharing the finished inventory when you ask for a quote opens the door to a more specific conversation about vehicle choice, and it gives you a checklist to work from.
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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.