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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Will that three-seat sofa actually fit through the front door? Measuring before you book saves a great deal of guesswork. Note the height, width and depth of every large item, then compare those figures against the entrances, stairwells and lifts at both ends of the journey. Record awkward shapes too, such as a corner sofa or a tall wardrobe, and flag anything with removable legs or doors. If access at the destination is uncertain, the person receiving the items is the right contact to ask about gates, narrow passages or parking restrictions. Keep the measurements written down, since the team will want them when you explain what you are carrying and the access arrangements. Their suggestion of a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van will then rest on facts rather than estimates.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory turns a scattered move into a manageable checklist. Group items by room or by destination, number each box, and note anything fragile or unusually shaped alongside its dimensions. If some goods are heading to storage and others to a new address, mark which is which so nothing ends up in the wrong place. Record the recipient's name and phone number for each drop-off point, plus any time window they have given you. Photograph valuable pieces before the day, purely for your own records. When the hire dates are settled, share a summary of the inventory with the team, since the overall volume helps them judge whether one vehicle or a different size suits the job. What remains available will be confirmed when you book.
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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.