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.
Confirming Helper Availability Before You Book
Can your helpers commit to a date before you book? That question settles the shape of the hire. Ask each friend or colleague which days they can manage, then settle on a window that suits most people and note a backup date in case something falls through. Write a short schedule listing who arrives where and when, with mobile numbers for everyone involved, so any change can be shared quickly. If somebody can only spare a morning, mark that beside their name. When you contact the team, include the agreed dates and ask whether the van could be collected the evening before or returned the following day, and what information the hire would need for each option.
Putting Your Household Move on Paper
Putting a household move down on paper helps the whole hire take shape. Try a simple inventory: every room listed, each large item measured, and a running total of boxes and bags. Note the dimensions of anything bulky, such as a mattress, a chest of drawers or a garden bench, and flag items destined for storage rather than the new address. Record the access arrangements you already know at both ends, along with the hire dates and any flexibility around them. From this list you can ask which van options suit the load, whether the items going to storage should be treated as a separate leg, and whether your chosen dates leave room for a slip.
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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.