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 Entrance and Item Dimensions
Which measurements should you gather before enquiring? For each large item on your list, note its length, width and height, and if it comes apart, record the size of each section separately. Then think about the places involved: at a storage unit, a shop entrance or a recipient's building, you can ask the contact there about door widths, corridor turns, lift dimensions and any steps. Writing these figures together shows whether anything looks questionable before the hire dates arrive. If a measurement seems borderline, note it as a question rather than guessing. You can then pass the item list, the access details you have gathered and the dates to the team, and they will help match the job to the right van from the options available.
Pulling a Household Move Together
Where do you start with a house move list? Room by room tends to work: jot down the furniture in each space, then count the boxes, bags and loose items you expect by the day. Mark anything fragile or unusually shaped so it stands out on the page, and set aside a column for items that might be sold, given away or left behind. Note the hire dates you have in mind, including a possible buffer day if the move could overrun. At the new address, keep a named contact and phone number so you can confirm arrival arrangements. Sharing the full list and access details with the team then gives them what they need to suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Explore other van hire areas
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.