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.
Measuring items and entrances first
Will the wardrobe actually fit through the doorway, and will it fit in the van? Both questions are worth answering before hire day. Measure your largest items at their widest and tallest points, then check the entrances, corridors and stairways they must pass through at both ends of the journey. Awkward shapes such as sofas and mattresses often matter more than their raw dimensions suggest. Where something cannot be dismantled, note that too, since it changes what can travel alongside it. Passing these measurements to the team when you enquire helps them suggest an appropriate van from the range available, and it flags potential access problems well before the van arrives.
Keeping a load inventory
A simple written list of everything going into the van pays for itself several times over. Write down each item as it is packed, and tick it off at the other end, so nothing quietly disappears during a busy move. Group related things together on the list, such as kitchen boxes or bedroom furniture, which makes unloading and placement far quicker at the destination. The inventory also helps you describe the job accurately when arranging hire, giving the team a realistic picture of the volume involved. If items are going to more than one address, note which belongs where. A few minutes with a notepad removes most of the guesswork from the day.
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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.