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.
Deciding Whether to Measure Up
One of the first choices worth settling is whether you will measure your larger items before asking for a quote. If furniture, appliances or unusually shaped pieces are part of the job, note down their height, width and depth, and add anything that does not break down flat, such as mirror frames or protruding handles. Compare these figures with the vehicle options you are considering, and flag any item that seems borderline rather than assuming it will work out. Where a piece can be dismantled, record which parts come apart and who is doing that on the day. These measurements and notes give the team something concrete to work from when matching your load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Building a Clear Load List
Alongside measurements, an inventory of everything going into the van helps you brief the team accurately. Work room by room or job by job, listing each item with a brief description and, where relevant, its approximate size. Note fragile pieces separately so they can be mentioned when you discuss the job, and mark anything that might need special handling or attention on the day. If the load combines belongings from several people or addresses, record whose items are whose and where each group is headed. Keeping this list on your phone or a printed sheet means you can answer questions during the booking conversation and update it if plans change before the hire begins.
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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.