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.
Measure Bulky Items Before Enquiring
Before choosing between a small van and something larger, take a tape measure to your biggest items. Record the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, chests of drawers or any flat-pack boxes, and note whether anything can be dismantled to reduce its footprint. If a wardrobe stands two metres tall, that single figure tells the team more than a general description ever could. Photograph each item if that is quicker, and keep the measurements in one list so nothing is forgotten on the day. Where furniture has awkward angles, protruding handles or removable legs, mention those details too. You can then ask which van sizes suit your recorded dimensions and whether anything on your list needs a second look.
Keep a Written Load Inventory
Rather than relying on memory, build a simple inventory of everything you plan to move. Group it by room or by collection point, so a kitchen list sits separately from garage items, and number the boxes if that helps you track them. For each entry, note the item, its rough size and any fragile marking. If some belongings are going to storage and others to a new address, record which destination applies to each group, along with a contact name and number for anyone receiving goods at the far end. Questions to raise when requesting a quote include whether your inventory points to one van size or several trips, and how the access arrangements you described affect the recommendation.
Explore other van hire areas
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.