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.
Planning a Household Move Around Your Dates
How much notice should you give before booking a hire? The answer depends on when the move falls, so start by fixing the date range you can work within and noting any deadlines, such as a tenancy end or a completion day. Next, walk through each room and list what will travel with you, from sofas and mattresses to boxes, tools and loose items. Recording approximate dimensions for the largest pieces gives the team something concrete to work from when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. It is also worth noting where keys will be collected, who will be present at each end, and whether any items need special handling arrangements.
Deciding Between One Trip and Several
Should everything go in a single run, or would splitting the work across two or more days suit you better? That question is worth answering before you choose a vehicle, since it shapes how you organise the job. If most of what you own is boxed and compact, one longer day might cover it; if you are moving bulky furniture alongside awkward items, spreading the work could leave room for cleaning or paperwork between loads. Write down what you would take first, what could wait, and which pieces are essential on day one. You can compare your list against the van options discussed and ask the team how the hire period could be structured. Questions about parking or access at each address are best directed to whoever manages those properties.
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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.