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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Start with a written list of everything going in the van, because a clear inventory answers most questions before you even ask them. For each item, note its name, approximate dimensions and whether it comes apart, since a bed frame that dismantles behaves differently from one that does not. Count boxes rather than guessing, and flag anything awkward such as a long ladder, a rolled carpet or a fridge. If goods belong to different people, note whose is whose, particularly for business deliveries where a recipient may need to check items off. Record fragile pieces separately so nothing gets overlooked when you describe the job. With that list ready, you can ask the team which vehicle suits your load and confirm the hire dates cover both collection and drop-off windows.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Dimensions matter at both ends of the journey, so measure before you book rather than after. Note the height, width and depth of your largest items, then think about the spaces they must pass through, from doorways and corridors to gates and garage entrances at the delivery address. If you are unsure about access, the person at the destination is the right contact to ask, and it is worth recording their answer along with a phone number in case you need to confirm arrangements on the day. Keep a note of whether any item needs a lift, stairs or a narrow passage, purely as information to share when requesting a quote. You might also ask the team whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van best matches the sizes you have written down.
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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.