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
The key decision is what the equipment looks like when it is actually loaded, not how it looks in the garage. Measure the longest items, note anything awkwardly shaped, and count the smaller pieces that need keeping together. Gear like bikes, model railways, kayaks or workshop tools often takes up more room than expected once packed carefully for transit. Describe all of this to the team when you enquire, along with your dates and any access considerations at either end, and they can suggest which van types fit the job. If a helper is coming along, mention that too, since a crew van provides extra seats. Asking about dimensions at the enquiry stage avoids surprises on collection day.
Organising a household move
Decide early whether the whole move happens in one trip or several, as that choice influences the vehicle you request. Walk through each room and list the furniture, boxes and awkward items so your load description is complete rather than approximate. Contact the recipient or new occupier about access, parking and any time limits on unloading, because those answers come from them rather than the hire team. If some items are being sold, donated or stored, separate those from the main load in your notes. Share the full picture with the team, including dates and access details, and they will help pair the job with a suitable van where one is available.
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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.