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.
Writing down your boxed belongings
Start with a written inventory of everything going into boxes. List each box with a number, the room it came from and a short note of its contents, which helps you find things later and tells you the total count at a glance. Note how many boxes you have, their rough sizes, and any bags, crates or loose items that are not boxed at all. If some boxes are heavier or contain fragile pieces, mark that on the list rather than relying on memory. Keep the inventory on your phone or a notepad and update it as you pack. When you contact the team for a quote, give them the box count, item sizes and hire dates, since a clear picture of the load helps them match the job to a suitable van option where available.
Checking entrances and item dimensions first
Before settling on a vehicle, measure the things that could cause trouble. Note the height, width and depth of each large item, from sofas and mattresses to shelving units and white goods, and record whether anything separates into smaller pieces. Then check the spaces the items must pass through: doorways, hallways, staircases, gates and any lift at either end of the trip. Write those measurements next to the item sizes so you can compare them at a glance. If a piece looks close to the limit, flag it when you enquire rather than discovering an issue on the day. Passing the full dimensions, access arrangements and hire dates to the team means the vehicle they suggest is based on recorded figures rather than estimates.
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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.