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.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
The first decision worth making is which items actually need to travel in the van. Once you have settled that, measure each bulky piece and write the figures down: height, width and depth for furniture, plus the diagonal if a shape is awkward. Note whether anything comes apart, such as legs that unscrew or a bed frame that separates into sections, and record the dimensions both assembled and disassembled if you can. If an item is still in a shop or a seller's home, ask them for measurements and photos rather than estimating. Keep the list with you when you contact the team, because exact figures allow them to discuss which van options might suit your load. Any measurements you are unsure about should be flagged as approximate so nothing is assumed.
Keeping a clear load inventory
A written inventory is useful both for your quote request and for your own records. List every item you intend to move, from the largest wardrobe down to boxes of odds and ends, and give each one a brief description. Note the quantity of boxes or bags and, where relevant, whether contents are fragile or need to stay upright. If items are going to more than one address, group the list by destination and note who will receive each group, including a contact name and number for each. This helps you spot anything forgotten and lets the hire team talk through your requirements with real detail. Questions you might raise include whether your inventory suggests a particular van size and whether anything on your list needs flagging when you book.
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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.