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 load
Start with the numbers you can check yourself. Measure the largest items, including their height when tipped on end if that is how they will travel, and compare them with the doorways, close entrances and any narrow passages at both the pickup and delivery addresses. A sofa that fits the van may still struggle with a tight stairwell, so those measurements belong in your enquiry alongside the list of goods. Where furniture can be dismantled, note which pieces come apart and allow time for that on the day. Ask the recipient at the delivery address about access on their side too, including where the van can stand while items are carried in. Passing these details to the team helps them suggest a vehicle that matches the whole job, not just the volume.
Splitting the job into runs
Not every load needs to travel together. If the collection mixes a few large pieces with many smaller boxes, consider keeping the big items for the van trip and moving the boxes separately with a helper's car, which can reduce the space you need to hire. Alternatively, several runs in the same van over one day may suit an address where parking is limited to short periods. Write down which items belong to which run so nothing is forgotten at either end. If time is tight, weigh up the hours available against the number of trips, and mention this when you speak to the team, since the length of the hire period is part of the arrangement. Describing the split you have in mind helps them confirm dates that actually fit.
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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.