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.
Moving Boxed Belongings with a Van
A little preparation before your hire period begins can save a great deal of hassle once the van is in your hands. Sketch out a rough plan for how you want the day to run, thinking about which tasks come first and where the vehicle will be needed at each stage. Gather together any packing materials, straps or blankets you intend to bring, and decide in advance who will be responsible for each part of the job. If friends or colleagues are helping, agree a meeting arrangement so nobody is left waiting around. Once your outline is ready, pass the details to the team when you enquire, along with your preferred dates, a description of what you are carrying and the access situation at each stop, so they can suggest a suitable van from the range where available.
Measuring Bulky Items for Your Hire
Working out the size of van you need becomes far easier once you have a clear picture of the items involved. Rather than guessing, walk through your home, workshop or site and jot down the bulkiest pieces, from wardrobes and sofas to ladders, tool chests or sheets of material. Even rough measurements, taken with a tape and noted against each entry, give the team something concrete to work from when recommending a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. It is worth mentioning anything awkward in shape, heavy, or needing careful handling, since these details often influence which vehicle makes the most sense. Sharing that summary with your enquiry, together with the dates you have in mind and the layout at each address, helps the conversation move quickly towards a firm booking.
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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.