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.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
Begin with a written list of what needs to travel, room by room, and note the sizes of the largest pieces so you can describe the load accurately. From that list, work out roughly how many boxes, bags and loose items you expect, and set a realistic window for getting everything ready before the van arrives. Record which items must travel on which date if your move spans several days, and set aside anything you will need immediately, such as kettle, tools or documents, so it is not buried in a box destined for storage. If friends are helping, agree arrival times with them in advance. Build a buffer into the schedule for the unexpected rather than planning to the minute, and share the list with the team when you enquire.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs on lists, so start with a room-by-room inventory and mark each item for its destination: the new home, storage, a charity shop or a friend's garage. Note the dimensions of furniture that will need to pass through doorways, and record a contact name and number for both the old and new properties, including any neighbour or agent who holds keys. Ask your contacts at each address about parking and access arrangements directly, since they know the premises. Set the dates for each stage of the move and decide what must travel first, such as beds and essentials for the first night. When you contact the team, present this plan and the item list, and they can help match the job to a suitable van where available.
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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.