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.
Planning a Household Move With Confidence
How far ahead should you start planning a house move? As early as you reasonably can, because a written plan keeps every part of the process in one place. Begin by fixing your hire dates, including a buffer day either side if your completion date could shift. Then list each room's contents, marking anything that needs special attention such as a dismantled wardrobe, a mirror or an appliance. Note the access arrangements at both ends: whether there is a driveway, shared entry or restrictions the destination contact can explain, and a phone number for someone on site. Recording who will be present on the day and what each person is responsible for avoids last-minute confusion. When you request a quote, these details let the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before deciding what to carry, it is worth measuring your largest items and writing the numbers down. Note the height, width and depth of each piece, plus whether it comes apart, whether doors or legs remove and whether it will fit through the corridors and doorways it must pass, based on measurements you take yourself. A tape measure and ten minutes can answer questions that otherwise hold up your enquiry. Photographs of awkward items are also useful, since you can describe them accurately when speaking to the team. Once you have dimensions for everything from the sofa to the filing cabinet, you can share the full list alongside your access arrangements and hire dates. The team can then advise which vehicle suits the load, and you will know exactly what to tell helpers on the day.
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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.