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
Choose the van around the load. Small vans work well for boxes, tools and light collections. Medium or long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment, while Lutons are better for bulkier house-move items. The available range includes Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB, subject to dates, driver details and availability. The exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are confirmed at quote stage, so the vehicle examples should be used as a guide to the type of hire available rather than a guaranteed reservation of a specific model.
One Trip or Several: Weighing It Up
A key decision before you request a quote is whether you intend to move everything in a single journey or spread the job across several trips. If you plan one trip, list every item you need to carry so the team can discuss whether a Luton, dropside or crew van might suit, subject to availability. If several shorter runs are on your mind, note the distance involved and how much time you can set aside, since those figures may influence which vehicle you ask about. You could also record which items must travel on which day if your move is phased. Neither approach is right in every case, so treat it as an open question to raise with the team, who can talk through the options once they see your dates and full load list.
Organising a Household Move Step by Step
For a household move, start with a room-by-room inventory of what will travel. Note furniture dimensions where you can, particularly for wardrobes, sofas and appliances, and mark anything that can be dismantled before the hire date. Record your preferred dates, any access details at both properties such as parking restrictions, and a contact number for anyone receiving deliveries at the far end. If some belongings are going to storage rather than the new home, list those separately so the split is clear. Once your notes are complete, you can ask the team targeted questions about van options, from small vans to Lutons, and raise anything you are unsure of so the whole job is clear before you request a quote.
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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.