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.
Comparing One Trip with Several
The first decision many customers face is whether to move everything in a single outing or spread the work over two or three. To weigh this up, list what needs to travel, noting rough sizes for the larger pieces such as wardrobes, sofas or stacked storage boxes. If some items are not urgent, recording which can wait until a later date may shape your choice of van and the length of hire. Ask the team which vehicle would suit the total volume you have described, and whether your preferred dates remain free for one longer booking or two shorter ones. Where a recipient is accepting delivery on your behalf, note their contact details and the agreed window for each planned visit.
Moving Boxed Belongings
A room-by-room inventory of your boxes gives you a clear record to work from, so start by numbering each one and jotting its contents on the outside or on a separate sheet. Note the approximate size of any unusually shaped items, like a floor lamp or a rolled rug, alongside the boxes. If some cartons are bound for storage and others for a new address, mark which is which, as this may influence how you plan your stops. Keep the phone number of anyone receiving items at each destination, and confirm any arrival windows you have agreed with them directly. When requesting your quote, mention the number of boxes, the hire dates and the access arrangements so the team can respond accurately.
Explore other van hire areas
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.