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.
Working Out the Unloading Order
If you are moving house, it can help to write down what you plan to bring off the van and in what order, purely as a record for your own planning. List each item with a note of whether it needs careful handling, and add the room or address it belongs to so anyone helping on the day can follow the same list. Rather than deciding arrangements inside the van, simply keep the list as a summary of the job, which you can share with the hire team when asking about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. If some pieces are still undecided, mark them clearly, and raise any questions about access with the people receiving the goods rather than the hire team.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Suppose the largest piece you are collecting is a wardrobe bought from a private seller. Before committing to hire dates, measure its height, width and depth, then write those figures into your notes alongside the dimensions of any other substantial items. It is also worth recording the width and height of the entrance the wardrobe must pass through at both ends, though confirming access at the destination itself is a matter for whoever is receiving or selling the item. Ring-fence a slot in your schedule to double-check measurements with a tape rather than estimating, and photograph anything unusual. When you contact the team, ask which van options they would discuss for the sizes involved, and keep the seller's phone number to hand in case you need to verify a figure at short notice.
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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.