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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
What should go on your list first? Begin with every item you intend to move, described in plain terms: two seater sofa, chest of drawers, six cardboard boxes, roll of carpet. Next to each entry, add approximate dimensions and any awkward features such as protruding legs, glass panels or fixed shelving. If an item belongs to someone else, note who owns it and where it is heading, since that helps when several drops are involved. Photographs can jog the memory later if the list gets long. Keep the finished inventory with your hire notes so you can share it when asking for a quote, and update it if plans change before the date arrives.
Transporting Hobby Equipment
Hobby gear often has shapes that resist neat description, so measurements matter. Suppose you are moving a kayak, a model railway layout in sections, or several instrument cases: record the length, width and height of the largest piece, plus whether it separates into parts. Note the total number of items and any that need to stay upright or flat. If someone at the receiving end, a club venue or a friend's garage, is expecting the delivery, their contact details belong on your list too. When you contact the team, ask which vehicle options could suit the dates you have in mind and share the dimensions you recorded, leaving the matching decision open until they respond.
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Things to check 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.