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.
Measuring items before you request a quote
What are the largest items you need to move? Answer that first, because dimensions drive the vehicle choice more than anything else. Go through the load and measure the biggest pieces: the sofa, the wardrobe, the workbench or whatever else dominates the list. Note each item's height, width and depth in writing, and record the total number of boxes or smaller pieces alongside them. Awkward shapes deserve a mention too, since a long ladder or a rolled rug may need different consideration from a square carton. When you ask for a quote, share that written list and ask which van the team would recommend for the whole load. If any item's size is uncertain, say so rather than estimating, and keep the measurements to hand during the conversation.
Agreeing the details with a seller
If the trip involves collecting something you have bought, the seller holds several answers you need before booking. Confirm the collection address, the date and time window they can accommodate, and whether anyone will be there to help at either end. Ask for the item's dimensions and weight if they have them, plus a photograph if the shape is unusual, and note the seller's phone number in case plans shift on the day. Where the purchase is heading to your home or a storage unit, write down the delivery address and a contact there as well. When you contact the hire team, the questions to raise are which van suits the item's size, whether the access arrangements at both addresses are worth flagging, and whether the dates you have agreed leave any flexibility if the seller needs to change them.
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.