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.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
The first decision is what exactly counts as hobby equipment for your trip. List every item, from the largest, such as a canoe, model aircraft or set of diving cylinders, down to loose accessories, and note each one's dimensions and weight where you can. Record whether anything is rigid or can be dismantled, and whether covers or cases are involved. If the equipment is bound for a club, event or friend's house, write down the contact details at that end and any agreed arrival window. Sketch the itinerary, including the starting address and any stops. When you ask the team for a quote, share the load list, access arrangements and hire dates, and ask which vehicle options, such as a dropside or crew van, might suit the job and what remains to be confirmed.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A load inventory is simply a written record of what will travel and where it is going. Start with a room-by-room or task-by-task tally, then note the dimensions of oversized pieces and the number of boxes or bags. Mark anything fragile, anything that must stay dry, and anything belonging to a third party, such as goods collected on behalf of a customer. If the van is needed for a business delivery, record the recipient's name, address and phone number so the drop-off can be coordinated. Add the access arrangements at each end, including any gates, parking notes or time restrictions you already know about. Presenting this inventory when requesting a quote allows the team to match the job to a suitable van and highlights any details worth discussing further.
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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.