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.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Will that sofa actually pass through the door? Measuring before you enquire answers the question and saves guesswork. Record the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, along with any wardrobes or tables that can be dismantled, and note the dimensions of doorways, corridors, stairwells and lifts at both ends of the journey. If a garage, storage unit or shop has a loading area, it is worth asking the contact there about opening hours and any height bars. Writing these figures down means you can describe the job accurately when the team matches it to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and any questions about awkward shapes or tight access can be raised directly.
Planning the Unloading Order
Rather than leaving everything to the day itself, you could think ahead about how the job will be organised at the destination. If boxes are destined for different rooms or addresses, a simple labelled list helps everyone recognise what belongs where, and recording which pieces are fragile keeps that information clear without relying on memory. Where a recipient will meet you, confirm their contact number and expected availability, since they may have their own views on timing. Questions you might still ask include whether the destination contact accepts deliveries at your chosen hour and whether any items need special handling. Noting these details is entirely up to you, but it gives the team a fuller picture of the job when confirming the right van.
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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.