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.
One Trip or Several: Weighing It Up
A specific decision worth making early is whether to move everything in a single hire or split the job across several runs. Start by listing what needs to travel and grouping items by destination, since a furniture collection and a storage run may involve different addresses and access arrangements. Note the hire dates you have in mind and whether a longer period would change how you sequence the work. If some items could wait a week, mark them as optional. Consider who will receive deliveries at each end and record their contact details so nobody is left waiting. When you ask for a quote, you can then explain both options, one longer hire or two shorter ones, and ask which vehicle would suit each, leaving the choice open until you have the figures.
Measuring Bulky Items in Advance
Before requesting a vehicle, take a few minutes to measure the bulky items you plan to carry. Note the height, width and depth of each large piece, such as wardrobes, sofas, workbenches or palletised stock, and write the figures beside each entry on your list. If anything can be separated into parts, record the dimensions of the pieces rather than the assembled whole. Check whether any item has an awkward shape or protruding handles that add to its footprint. Keep the measurements with your load inventory so you can share them with the team, who can then advise which of a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van might be considered where available. If an item barely clears a doorway at home, note that too, since it is a detail worth mentioning when you ask about hire dates and access arrangements.
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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.