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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Keeping a Written Load Inventory
Before requesting a quote, it helps to write down everything you expect to carry, from the largest wardrobe to the smallest box of tools. A simple list might include each item's name, an approximate count, and a note of anything unusually shaped or awkward. If you are collecting furniture from a shop or a private seller, ask the seller for the dimensions of each piece so your list reflects reality rather than guesswork. Record which items belong to which room or job, as this can shape the order you plan to work through on the day. Once the inventory is written, share it with the team along with your dates; they can then advise which van options might suit and whether anything on your list raises questions worth settling before you book.
Noting Item and Entrance Dimensions
Alongside your list, measure the items that matter most, particularly tall units, long lengths of timber or rolled materials, and note the figures in centimetres or inches, whichever you prefer. It is also worth recording the dimensions of any doorways, gates, corridors or lifts at both ends of the journey if you already know them, since these details often influence which van makes sense. If access details are unknown, contacting the collection point or destination directly can fill the gap. When you pass the measurements to the hire team, include any conditions such as narrow lanes, height barriers or parking restrictions you are aware of. Open questions are fine at this stage; the aim is simply to gather accurate numbers so the team can talk through vehicle options with you and flag anything that needs clarifying before your dates are confirmed.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.