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.
Listing what each room contributes
A household move goes best when it starts with a room-by-room list rather than a flurry of boxes. Walk through the house and note what is coming, what is staying and what is being passed on, since a clear inventory shapes every later decision. Mark boxes by destination room so unloading at the other end is straightforward. Set aside the items you will need straight away, such as the kettle, bedding and tools, and plan for them to come off the van last. Ask anyone helping at the far end what they can manage and when they are free. When you contact the team, describe the size of the move in general terms and they can talk through which van would suit.
Measuring bulky items with a tape
Bulky items deserve a tape measure before anything else. Note the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, including wardrobes, sofas and white goods, and record whether any of them come apart. Compare those figures with the load space of the van types on offer rather than estimating by eye. Remember that an item also has to clear doorframes, stairwells and landings at both addresses, so measure the awkward gaps as well as the goods themselves. Pass the numbers to the team when you enquire, together with a rough total of smaller items. Measurements given up front make the vehicle choice far more reliable than any guess.
Explore other van hire areas
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.