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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Which measurements should you gather before asking about a van? Start with the largest items you plan to move, such as a sofa, a mattress or a workbench, and note their height, width and depth, including any packaging. If a wardrobe or a fridge cannot be dismantled, record that too. Next, consider the access at both ends: measure the doorways, hallway turns and any gates the items must pass through, and note whether there are steps, a lift or a narrow lane. Write down the hire dates and access arrangements, and share the full list with the team, who can then consider whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the job. If anything seems borderline, asking about it early leaves room to discuss alternatives before the hire begins.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
If your hobby involves bulky gear, such as a canoe, a model railway layout, a set of DJ decks or several sailboards, a little preparation before the enquiry can clarify what you need. Note the dimensions of each item, whether it breaks down into sections, and how many pieces there are in total. Some equipment comes in awkward shapes rather than heavy weights, so recording length and width matters as much as anything else. Think about where the equipment is stored now and where it is heading, including any gates, ramps or narrow entrances at either end. Share these notes alongside the hire dates, and the team can look at whether a dropside or crew van fits the job where available. Asking about specific items early also leaves time to adjust plans.
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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.