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.
Recording the Dimensions of Large Items
Whether a sofa, a piano or a stack of sheet materials is on your list, the booking conversation goes more smoothly with measurements in hand. Decide which items will definitely travel, then record the length, width and height of each one, along with a count of anything that comes in multiples, such as six chairs or three cabinets. Note whether anything can be dismantled, and if so, measure the parts separately. If a piece has protruding handles, feet or legs, include them in your figures rather than measuring the main body alone. Keep the list with you when you contact the team, and ask which van option would be suitable for the load and whether the items you have described affect that choice.
Transporting Hobby Equipment by Van
Hobby gear often includes odd shapes, so a written inventory is the place to start. If you are moving a model railway, sailing gear, band equipment or workshop tools, list each item and note its dimensions, particularly for long or tall pieces such as masts, planks or speaker cabinets. Record how many boxes of smaller accessories go with the main items, and set aside anything fragile that needs its own note. Fix your hire dates around when the equipment is needed, and if someone at the other end, perhaps a club secretary or event organiser, will take delivery of anything, keep their contact details with you. Mention the full list when you ask for a quote so the team can comment on van suitability.
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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.