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.
Listing What Goes into Each Box
Start with a written inventory, because the details you record decide how smoothly everything else runs. Work from room to room and note each boxed item, its approximate size and whether it is fragile. Rather than writing kitchen goods, split the list into plates, glassware, pans and small appliances, since a specific tally helps when discussing van size with the team. Mark boxes on two sides and keep a separate sheet numbering each one, so you can tick items off as they reach the new address. Note anything that will not fit a standard box, such as a lampshade or a vacuum cleaner, and flag any item you intend to dismantle. Questions about whether a particular van suits your load can go straight into your quote request.
Measuring Doorways and Bulky Items
Before booking, measure the awkward pieces and the openings they must pass through. Record the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, mattresses and appliances, and compare those numbers against the dimensions of every doorway, hallway turn and stairwell on the route, at both the collection point and the destination. Where a gap looks tight, note it down and raise it when you contact the team, since a measurement recorded in advance answers a question that is far harder to settle on the day. If an item could be separated into parts, note which sections come apart and whether you have the tools to do it. Ask any destination contact about parking arrangements and access restrictions, and write those answers alongside your measurements.
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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.