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.
Moving boxed belongings with a van
If most of your load is boxes, count them before anything else and note any that are unusually heavy or oddly shaped. Group the boxes by destination room so that unloading at the other end goes quickly and nothing gets buried. Write a short list of what is in each batch if the contents matter, since that helps when items are being placed in a new property or a storage unit. Decide which things travel with you in a separate bag rather than in the van. When you enquire, give the approximate number of boxes and the bulkiest items so the job can be matched to the right vehicle. A single run is easier to plan when the full picture of the load is clear from the start.
Checking entrances and item dimensions
Measuring saves trouble at both ends of the journey. Take the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, then check the doorways, corridors and stairwells they must pass through at the destination. If something will not fit through an entrance, ask the recipient how they would like to handle it before the van is loaded. Note any lifts, gates or narrow passages the driver should know about, and pass those details on when describing the job. Confirm who will be at the receiving address and whether they can accept the items during the planned window. A short exchange about dimensions and access keeps the delivery moving and avoids arriving with goods that cannot reach their intended room.
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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.