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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Organising a Household Move
What should you write down before the van is booked? Start with a room-by-room list of everything moving, noting approximate sizes for the largest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Record your preferred dates, any flexibility around them, and the addresses at both ends of the move, including flat numbers and any access notes you have been given. If items are going to more than one destination, list what belongs where. Think about who will be present at each address and at what times, and note a phone number for anyone receiving furniture on your behalf. Questions worth raising with the hire team include which vehicle option they can confirm for your dates and what collection or delivery arrangements apply. A clear inventory makes the enquiry easier to answer accurately.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Have you measured the items and the spaces they must pass through? Before requesting a quote, note the height, width and depth of bulky pieces like pianos, chests of drawers and shelving units, and record whether anything can be dismantled. Where access details matter, ask the contacts at each property about door widths, corridor turns, staircases and any restrictions they know of, since they are best placed to describe their own premises. Keep these figures with your notes so you can share them when you enquire. You might also list the total number of boxes and bags, as the team will ask what you need to carry when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. Accurate measurements help avoid surprises on the day.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.