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.
Measuring Items and Entrances in Advance
Will everything actually go where you need it to? Before requesting a van, take a tape measure to the items you plan to move and note down their height, width, depth and approximate weight. A sofa, a wardrobe and a stack of flat-pack boxes each present different challenges, so record them individually rather than guessing. Then think about the entrances involved: measure doorways, gates, corridors and any lift at both the collection point and the destination, and jot down whether there are steps, narrow lanes or restricted parking. If someone else is receiving the goods, ask them to confirm these measurements themselves. With this information written down, the hire team can discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available.
Listing Boxed Belongings for a Move
Moving boxed belongings becomes far more manageable when you keep a written inventory. Start by numbering each box and noting its contents and the room it belongs to, which helps at both ends of the journey. Record roughly how many boxes you have, their sizes and anything fragile or awkwardly shaped that will not fit a standard box, such as lamps, mirrors or garden tools. Decide your hire dates early, including a buffer day if packing might overrun, and note the access arrangements at each address. If a friend or family member is helping, confirm their availability and contact number. Any questions about whether items will fit a particular van can be raised with the team when you ask for a quote, along with anything else you are unsure about.
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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.