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 Bulky Items
The decision that often shapes a van booking is the size of the largest single item you need to carry, so it pays to measure before enquiring. Take the height, width and depth of each bulky piece, such as a wardrobe, a chest of drawers or a workbench, and write the figures against the item's name. If something cannot be dismantled, note that as well, because it changes the picture you present to the team. Where a measurement is awkward to take, an estimate with a margin may serve, provided you label it clearly as approximate. These recorded dimensions can then be shared when you ask which van would suit the job.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Alongside the items themselves, you can record the dimensions of any entrance they must pass through, including doorways, corridors and gates at both ends of the journey. If access arrangements are managed by another party, such as a landlord or a storage site, note who to contact and what you plan to ask them about opening times or restrictions. For deliveries, write down the recipient's address and phone number, plus any window when they expect to be present. Where a question remains open, such as whether a gate can be opened wide enough, keep it on your list rather than guessing. These notes give the team a fuller picture when matching the job to a van.
Explore other van hire areas
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.