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.
Keep a Load Inventory
Start with a written list of everything going into the van. For a move, note each item of furniture, the number of boxes and any loose pieces, with rough dimensions for the larger ones. For trade work or a business delivery, record the goods, their quantities and whether anything needs particular care. A storage run deserves the same treatment: list what leaves, what arrives and any items staying behind. If helpers are joining, note their names and availability. Once the inventory exists, you can share it with the team alongside the access arrangements and hire dates, and ask which van option suits, whether that is a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Open questions might include whether the list fits one trip or how a crew van changes the seating arrangements.
Check Entrances and Item Dimensions
Before you book, measure the items that matter and note the access at each end of the journey. Record the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, workbenches or pallets, and write down any narrow gateways, low ceilings or restricted doorways you already know about at the collection and delivery addresses. If a destination has a contact person, ask them directly about parking, opening hours and lift availability rather than guessing. When you request a quote, pass on the dimensions and access notes together, and ask whether a small van, Transit or Luton would suit the job where available. Questions worth raising include whether the hire dates allow for delays and who to contact if the access details change after booking.
Explore other van hire areas
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.