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.
Transporting hobby equipment by van
Decide first what is actually travelling and what can stay at home, since hobby loads often shrink once unused items are left behind. Make a note of anything awkward, such as long poles, bulky cases or items that cannot be laid on their side, and describe these to the hire team when you enquire. Group smaller accessories into boxes so nothing rolls loose during the journey. If the equipment is needed for an event with a set start time, plan the loading and travel around that deadline rather than working back from it. Consider whether anything needs padding or wrapping to survive the trip, and prepare those materials in advance. A clear inventory helps the team match a van to the load.
Measuring bulky items before hiring
Measure the largest items before you contact the hire team, noting length, width and height at their widest points, including any handles or protruding parts. Record these figures alongside the total number of pieces so the load can be described in one message. Where something can be separated into parts, note the size of each component, since this sometimes changes which van group fits. Check that items will pass through doorways, gates or corridors at both ends of the journey, as access shapes the plan as much as the vehicle itself. Keep the measurements to hand when you enquire. Describing your load precisely helps the team suggest an appropriate van for the dates you need.
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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.