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.
Building a Load Inventory
A written inventory is one of the most useful things a hirer can prepare before asking about a van. Start by listing every item intended for the journey, from large furniture down to boxes, tools and loose pieces, then group them by destination if the trip involves more than one drop-off. Alongside each entry, note an approximate size and any awkward features such as drawers that slide out or legs that cannot be removed. Where a collection involves someone else's property, perhaps a marketplace purchase or a business delivery, recording the recipient's name and contact number keeps the day organised. This inventory can then be shared with the team so the job can be matched to the vehicle, and any gaps in the list can be flagged while there is still time to adjust the plan.
Measuring Entrances and Items
Dimensions deserve their own set of notes. Before settling on a van size, measure the tallest and widest items on the inventory, including any packaging they will keep for the journey, and write these figures alongside the entrance sizes at both ends of the trip. Doorways, gates, corridors and lifts can all restrict what passes through, so if a measurement is uncertain, a quick question to the property contact can settle it. Where items might be dismantled, note which parts come apart and whether the fixings are to hand. These are details the hirer controls, and having them recorded means the enquiry to the team can include exact figures rather than guesses, leaving fewer open questions when the hire dates arrive.
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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.