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
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.
Mapping Out Where Each Item Will Go
If your delivery day involves several stops, it helps to sketch the sequence before you request a quote. Suppose you are dropping a sofa at a relative's house and the rest of a shipment at a storage unit; writing down each address, the items bound for it and a contact number for whoever is receiving them gives you a single reference sheet. Note down approximate dimensions for the bulkier pieces and the quantity of boxes at each stop. You might also record any time windows the recipients have mentioned. When you contact the team, asking which details they need for multi-stop jobs can clarify what to prepare before the hire begins.
Keeping a Clear Written Inventory
A written inventory is worth preparing even for a straightforward move. List each item by name, count how many of each you have, and add rough measurements for anything awkward such as wardrobes, ladders or rolled carpets. If a piece comes apart, note whether the legs remove or the shelves lift out, since that detail may influence which van size suits the job. Photographs of fragile or valuable belongings can sit alongside the list as a record. Once the inventory is complete, you can share it when asking for a quote, and the team can respond with a more specific answer about vehicle choice for your dates.
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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.