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.
Transporting hobby equipment by van
The first decision to make is what your hobby equipment actually involves. Write a list covering every piece you plan to take, whether that is camping gear, model railway boards, diving equipment, bicycles or musical instruments. Note how many items there are, which ones are the largest, and whether any can be dismantled before the journey. Record the rough dimensions of the biggest pieces and flag anything with an unusual shape that will not stack neatly with the rest. If some equipment belongs to a club or another person, note who to contact about it. This written summary gives the hire team a clear picture when you enquire, and lets you ask directly which van options might suit the collection of items you have described, rather than working from memory.
Measuring bulky items before you book
Measuring bulky items in advance is a straightforward task that pays off when you ask for a quote. Take a tape measure to the largest pieces and record their length, width and height, writing the figures next to each item on your list. If something comes apart, measure it in both states and note which you plan to use. Where a measurement is awkward to take, mark it as an estimate so nobody treats it as exact. It can also be useful to note the dimensions of gates, doorways or passages at each end of the journey, though the relevant destination contact can confirm those for you. With these figures recorded, you can share them with the team and ask which vehicles might be considered for the load.
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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.