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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before you ring for a quote, take a few minutes to measure the bulky items you plan to move. Note the length, width and height of each piece, plus any parts that stick out, such as legs on a table or handles on a wardrobe. If an item comes apart, record the dimensions of the largest section rather than the assembled whole. Write down roughly how many of each item you have, whether that is two sofas or eleven boxes of books, and set this list against your proposed hire dates. Where an item will only fit through one door of your home, note that too. These figures can then be passed to the hire team, who can talk through which van sizes might suit the job where available.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings
A written inventory of your boxed belongings is worth preparing well before hire day. Number each box and jot down its contents and the room it belongs to, which gives you something to check against at the other end. Note any boxes that need particular care, such as those holding crockery or electronics, and any that you would describe as heavy. If some items are going to different addresses, perhaps a sofa to a relative and the rest to a storage unit, list which destination applies to each. You might also record the total number of boxes and an estimate of their sizes, since this information can be shared when discussing van options and hire dates with the team.
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Things to check 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.