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 bulky items in advance
Begin with the awkward pieces, since they usually decide which van makes sense. Go through what you intend to move and measure the largest items — a fridge, a mattress, a workbench — recording height, width and depth for each. Note whether anything comes apart, such as legs removed from a table or a bed frame flat-packed, and jot down the packed dimensions if it does. If some items are still at a shop or another address, ask the seller for their measurements instead of guessing. A simple list with numbers against each item gives the team a clear basis for discussing a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Photographs of the bulkiest pieces can also help when you ask for a quote.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Alongside the items themselves, it is worth checking the spaces they must pass through. At home, measure the doorways, stair width and any tight corners between the room and the van's parking spot, and note whether a lift is involved at either end. If furniture is going into storage, ask the facility for the dimensions of the corridor, lift or unit entrance. For a collection from a shop or a house move at the other end, ask whoever controls that address about access — gates, narrow lanes, parking restrictions or limited hours. Write these figures next to your item measurements so everything sits in one place. When you enquire, share the hire dates and any access notes, and ask what else the team would suggest you confirm.
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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.