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.
Writing a load list that works
Before anything else, write down every item you intend to move, room by room or job by job. A load inventory is simply that: a written record of what is travelling, how many of each thing there is, and roughly how big the pieces are. Measure awkward shapes such as wardrobes, sofas, ladders or workbenches and note the numbers beside each entry, since a description like "large cupboard" can mean very different things to different people. Count boxes, bags and loose tools as separate lines, and mark anything that can be flattened or dismantled. If items belong to someone else, record whose they are and where each is heading. That list then becomes the basis of your conversation about which van suits the job, and it is far easier to amend on paper than partway through the day.
Taking hobby equipment on the road
Hobby gear often behaves less predictably than household boxes, so it deserves its own notes. Whether you are moving model railways, fishing tackle, camping kit, instruments or sports equipment, list each item with its length, width and any protruding parts, and photograph anything unusually shaped in case the team asks for detail. Note which pieces are fragile, which come apart, and which travel in their own cases or bags. If equipment belongs to a club or another person, write down their name and number so handover questions can be settled quickly. Think about where the kit is going too: if a venue or storage site receives it, ask them directly about their access times and any restrictions they apply. Sharing the full equipment list, dimensions and dates with the hire team gives them a clear picture before quoting.
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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.