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.
Deciding What Equipment Travels With You
The first decision to make is exactly which pieces of hobby equipment need to come along, since this determines much of the conversation with the hire team. Whether you are transporting bicycles, camping gear, model railway boards, diving kit or instruments for a band night, list each item individually rather than as a general category. Note whether anything comes apart, such as a bike with wheels removed or a tent split into bags, and whether any piece is particularly long, wide or awkwardly shaped. If some equipment belongs to other people in your group, confirm with them directly what they intend to bring, as assumptions often lead to surprises on collection day. Once the list is settled, it can be passed to the team when you request a quote, giving them a clear basis for suggesting a suitable van.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Bulky equipment deserves its own set of measurements, taken before you make an enquiry rather than afterwards. For each large piece, record the length, width and height at its widest points, including any protruding handles, pedals or fittings that add to the overall size. If an item folds, collapses or separates into parts, measure it both assembled and packed down, then note which form it will travel in. It can also be worth measuring the space it normally occupies at home, such as a garage corner or shed shelf, as a cross-check on your figures. Where equipment sits in a roof box, trailer bag or purpose-made case, include the case dimensions too. Sharing these numbers with the team when asking for a quote allows them to consider the load properly and respond to any questions you have about the hire.
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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.