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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Coordinating your helpers
Who is actually going to be there on the day? Answering that early shapes everything else about the job. Confirm which friends, family members or colleagues can commit to specific times, and let them know roughly how long you expect the work to take so nobody has to leave halfway through. If helpers are meeting you at the destination rather than travelling with you, agree a contact number and a fallback time in case of delays. Ask whether anyone can bring equipment you might need, such as straps or blankets for fragile pieces. When you contact the team, mention how many people will be involved, since that can influence which type of van suits the job.
Measuring bulky items properly
Large items deserve accurate measurements rather than rough guesses. Take a tape to the biggest pieces, including any wardrobes, sofas or workbenches, and write down the height, width and depth of each one, noting anything that comes apart into sections. Remember to account for protruding parts like handles, feet or legs, which add real inches to a footprint. Photograph awkward shapes so you have a record to refer to when discussing the load. Share the full list of dimensions with the team and they can advise on which van type from the available range gives you workable space. This also helps you decide, for example, whether a piece could travel upright or needs to lie flat.
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Things to check 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.