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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything you plan to carry, item by item, before you contact the team. For a house move, this might mean listing each room's contents separately; for a trade job, it could be tools, materials and any equipment heading to site. Note the quantity of each item, whether anything belongs to a customer or client, and which pieces must arrive first at the destination. If some things are staying behind, mark them clearly so the list reflects only what is actually travelling. An inventory also helps when several people are helping, because everyone can see what has been counted and what is still outstanding. When you ask for a quote, send this list along with the access arrangements and hire dates, and the team can consider it when matching the job to a suitable van.
Measuring Bulky Items in Advance
Which of your items will cause the most trouble on the day? Usually it is the bulky ones, so measure them before you choose a vehicle. Take the length, width and depth of each large piece, including wardrobes, sofas, workbenches or palletised materials, and record the figures alongside the item name on your inventory. Do not forget detachable parts, such as table legs, mirror panels or shelving that could be removed, and note whether anything comes apart at all. If an item will not dismantle, say so explicitly when you enquire. You might also note door widths and lift dimensions at the destination if you already have them, since the contact there can confirm anything you are unsure about. Supplying these measurements with your request helps the team assess which van option fits the job.
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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.