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.
Setting Out the Details of a House Move
A room-by-room list is a sound starting point for a house move: note each item of furniture, its approximate dimensions, and anything that comes apart, such as bed frames or shelving. If you know the collection address and the delivery address, record the contact names and phone numbers for both, plus any times when someone will be present to hand over keys. The hire dates matter as much as the contents, so decide whether you need the van for a single day or across several. Mention the access arrangements at each end when requesting a quote, and ask the team how the items on your list compare with the small van, Transit, Luton, dropside and crew van options they offer, so the recommendation reflects what you actually plan to carry.
Keeping a Clear Inventory of What Travels
An inventory does more than help you remember what goes where; it gives the team something concrete to work from when suggesting a vehicle. For each item, record a name, rough measurements and whether it is fragile. Photographs taken on your phone can support the list if you want to describe anything unusual. If boxes are involved, count them and note their estimated sizes. Once the inventory is drafted, compare it against your itinerary: collection day, delivery day and any storage stop in between. Where a recipient will accept goods at the far end, add their contact details so you can confirm timing directly. Questions worth asking include how the list reads against the available van options and whether splitting the job across dates would change the recommendation.
Explore other van hire areas
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.