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.
Measuring before you choose
Which matters more when picking a van: the size of the doorway or the size of the item? In practice, both deserve a tape measure. If a wardrobe, sofa or appliance has to come out of one building and into another, note its height, width and depth, then check the corridors, stairwells and doorways it must pass through at each end. Where something will not make the journey in one piece, find out whether it can be dismantled and how many parts that creates. Access outside matters as well, so ask the recipient where a van can pull up and whether there are any restrictions they know about. Pass the measurements and access notes to the team, and they can advise on a suitable vehicle.
Carrying hobby equipment
Hobby loads are often more awkward than household ones, since equipment rarely comes in tidy boxes. A set of camping gear, a model railway layout or several instrument cases each present their own shape, and a quick sketch of what is travelling helps enormously. Lay out everything you intend to bring and note the longest, widest and tallest pieces, then think about what can be nested or packed around them. If the equipment is going to a show, a club night or a friend's house, ask your contact there about parking and unloading arrangements rather than assuming. When you enquire, describe the load in plain terms and the team can talk through which van type and hire length would serve it best.
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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.