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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Entrances and Items First
Which measurements should you take before asking for a quote? Start with every item on your list, noting height, width and depth, and then measure the spaces they must pass through, including doorways, corridors and lift openings where relevant. Record the quantity of each piece, from single wardrobes to stacks of boxes, so the team can consider whether a small van, Transit, Luton or dropside suits the job. If an item comes apart, note which parts detach and their separate sizes. Access questions, such as whether a lift is available or a corridor turns sharply, should be answered by whoever manages the building rather than guessed. Your hire dates and the addresses involved complete the picture. Any item you cannot measure is worth flagging as approximate when you enquire.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends or colleagues are assisting with your move, agreeing roles beforehand keeps everyone on the same page. Make a list of who is available, their arrival times and how to reach them on the day, then note which tasks each person expects to handle. The hire dates, collection point and destination address should be shared with the group so nobody is working from old information. Where a recipient accepts items at the far end, gather their name and phone number, and put any access queries to them directly. You might also decide who contacts the team if plans change and who holds the booking reference. Open questions can include whether helpers can ride along in a crew van and how many seats are needed alongside the load.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.