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.
Putting a Household Move on Paper
What should you write down before a house move van is booked? Start with a room-by-room list of the items you intend to take, noting anything unusually long, wide or tall, such as wardrobes, sofas or mattresses, along with rough measurements where you have them. Next, set the dates you plan to load and finish, including any spare day in case the schedule slips. Record the address at each end of the move, a contact name and phone number for both, and any arrangements you have made about keys or access times. If friends are helping, list who is available on which day. Passing this written plan to the team with your enquiry gives them the item sizes, dates and access details needed to discuss which van option suits the job.
Arranging a Collection with a Seller
Who do you need to speak with before collecting a purchase? When an item is being bought from a private seller or a shop, confirm the collection date and the time window they can offer, and write both into your plan alongside the hire dates. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions and, if they know it, the approximate weight, plus the number of pieces if it comes apart. Record their address, a direct phone number and the name of whoever will hand the item over. It is also sensible to ask whether the item is upstairs, in a garage or behind a locked gate, since that affects access. With these details gathered, you can raise clear questions with the team about the van size, dates and access arrangements in a single enquiry.
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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.