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.
Measuring items and entrances
Will that double wardrobe actually fit through the cottage doorway? That is the sort of question to answer before you book rather than on the morning of the move. Measure the height, width and depth of the largest pieces you plan to carry, then note the dimensions of any entrances, corridors, stairwells or lifts involved at both ends of the journey. Record the figures in one place, alongside the hire dates and your inventory of smaller items, so the team can match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. If a furniture seller has listed approximate sizes, ring them to confirm exact measurements and keep their contact details with your notes. Questions about access, gates or opening hours at a destination belong with the people based there, so ask them directly.
Keeping a running load inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things you can prepare ahead of any van hire. Number each item, add a brief description and note which room or site it belongs to, which helps if the trip involves a storage unit or deliveries to several recipients. For business deliveries, record each recipient's name, address and phone number so you can confirm delivery windows with them directly. Keep a note of the approximate dimensions of larger pieces, since that information stays relevant if the plan changes and the team will want it when matching your job to a vehicle. You might also flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped purely as a reminder of what to discuss with the team. When you request a quote, ask what inventory detail they find helpful and whether your list raises any questions about vehicle choice.
Explore other van hire areas
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.