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
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.
Listing your boxed belongings before booking
Start by writing down every box you plan to move, numbered, with its contents and the room it belongs to. Note the approximate dimensions of the largest boxes and a rough count of the smaller ones, since a stack of book cartons behaves differently from a few bulky but lightweight boxes. Record any awkward items that are not boxed at all, such as rolled rugs, lampshades or picture frames, and their sizes. Mark which boxes are fragile and which contain things you will need first at the other end, such as kettle, tools or paperwork. This inventory helps you describe the load accurately when you request a quote, and it gives you a reference list to work through when you are checking that everything has left the old address.
Measuring items and entrances in advance
Which measurements matter most before hire day? Note the height, width and depth of the biggest pieces you are moving, and compare them with the dimensions of any entrances, corridors, stairwells or lifts involved at both ends. If a sofa or wardrobe looks close to the limit, write the figures down rather than estimating, and note whether doors open fully or swing against furniture. Record details of parking or access arrangements, such as whether a permit is needed, where a vehicle can stand, and any time restrictions, and keep a contact number for whoever manages the site. If anything seems uncertain, ask the destination contact directly. When you contact the team, share these measurements and access notes and ask which van options they would suggest for the load.
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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.