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
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.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
Start by writing down everything you plan to move, along with the date the van is booked for and the hours either side that you can realistically use. If you are packing boxes, note how many you expect to have by the day itself, and whether any items will still be loose or wrapped at short notice. It can be worth recording which rooms are packed and which are not, so you can see at a glance what still needs attention. Where a friend or family member has agreed to help, add their name and the time they said they would arrive to the same list. If any belongings are heading to different addresses, note the recipient for each batch and their contact details. Anything without a firm place on the list can be marked as undecided, and the list can be revised as the date approaches.
Planning a Household Move in Stages
How do you break a house move into manageable pieces? Try splitting it into rooms, then listing the items in each room that will definitely travel on the hire date. Note the dimensions of the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas or shelving, since these figures can be passed on when discussing the van. Record the date keys or access fobs change hands, and whether the new address has any entry arrangements worth confirming with the recipient or agent there. If some belongings are going into storage, keep that list separate from the one for the new house so nothing is mixed up. Each stage can carry its own checklist, from the kitchen to the garage, with a column showing whether items are packed, labelled or still in use. Where the move date might slip, note the alternative date early so it can be raised when booking.
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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.