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.
Measuring Bulky Items
Your first task is to decide what makes the trip, and then measure the pieces that could cause difficulty. For each wardrobe, sofa, appliance or workbench, write down its height, width and depth, and note whether doors, drawers or legs can be removed to reduce the overall size. It is worth checking whether items were assembled inside the room they occupy, since that can affect what comes apart. Add a note on anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, and photograph the largest pieces if that helps you describe them accurately. When you contact the team, share the measurements together with the access arrangements and hire dates, and ask which options, from a small van to a Luton or dropside, might suit the job. Anything you cannot measure precisely should be flagged as approximate.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Alongside measurements, a simple written inventory keeps the whole job accountable. List each item you plan to move, grouped by room or by owner, and give every piece a reference so nothing is anonymous on the day. Note the condition of anything valuable, and mark which boxes belong to which destination if the trip involves more than one drop-off. You might also record who supplied each item, where it came from originally and who is expecting it at the far end. When you ask for a quote, you can attach this inventory to your enquiry about the hire dates and access arrangements, which helps the team match the job to a suitable van. If the list changes before the day, update it rather than relying on memory.
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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.