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.
Measure before you choose
Before settling on a van, measure the largest items you plan to carry, including wardrobes, sofas or lengths of material, and note each measurement down. Compare these with the load space of the van types on offer, and if an item seems close to the limit, describe it to the team so the suitability of a particular vehicle can be discussed. Remember to account for anything awkward in shape, such as L-shaped desks or rolled carpets, which rarely match the neat dimensions on paper. Where furniture can be dismantled, factor that into your measurements. Sharing accurate figures when you enquire helps the team pair your job with an appropriate van from the available range, and avoids the frustration of discovering a problem on collection day in Menstrie.
Keep a load inventory
Writing a simple inventory of everything going into the van pays off at both ends of the journey. List each item, however small, and group them by room or by delivery address if the load is being split. The inventory helps you describe the job accurately when requesting a vehicle, and it doubles as a checklist when unloading, so nothing is left behind at a property or a storage unit. For trade work, it can also separate tools and materials from waste or returns. If others are helping you load, share the list so everyone knows what is expected. A few minutes spent on this paperwork before the van arrives makes the whole day run more predictably and gives you a record to refer back to.
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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.