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.
Writing the Inventory for a House Move
Start with a room-by-room inventory. List every item you intend to take, from mattresses to bookcases, and note next to each one whether it will be sold, donated or carried. Mark the pieces that come apart and where their screws will be stored. Compare your preferred hire dates with any completion dates, tenancy handovers or help offered by friends, and write down the version everyone has agreed. If items are going to more than one address, some to storage and some to a relative, record which is which so nothing is mislabelled on the day. Give the team this summary when you enquire, along with your access arrangements, and ask which van sizes would suit the list you have drawn up.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Which tape measure matters most? The one you use before booking. Measure the largest items you plan to carry, typically sofas, wardrobes, fridges or dining tables, recording height, width and depth for each, and note whether legs, doors or handles come off. Write the figures in centimetres on your inventory so nothing gets lost between rooms. If an item passes through a narrow doorway or stairwell at either end, measure that gap too and keep both numbers side by side. Photograph anything with an unusual shape to accompany your enquiry. Sharing these dimensions with the team lets them discuss which van could take the items, and it gives you a record to check against if you buy or collect further pieces before the hire.
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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.