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.
Organising a Household Move
Which rooms need emptying first, and when does each part of the move actually happen? A household move runs more smoothly on paper than in your head, so start by listing every item you intend to take, room by room, and mark anything that is staying behind. Note the hire dates, plus any gap between leaving one home and collecting keys to the next, since that might affect whether a storage run is needed. Record who will be present on each day, and gather the contact details for anyone receiving furniture at the far end, including their phone number and expected availability. If friends are helping on certain days only, write that against the schedule too. The finished list gives the team a clear basis for matching your job to the right vehicle.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Measurements turn guesswork into a plan you can hand over with confidence. Using a tape, record the height, width and depth of the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses, and note whether any of them come apart, along with which fixings are involved. Then measure the entrances the items must pass through at both ends: door frames, hallways, staircases and any gates on the approach. Where a measurement is close, write down the exact figure rather than rounding it, and note anything that cannot be dismantled or turned sideways. This information answers many questions before they are asked, and it lets you discuss vehicle options with the team in concrete terms. Any gaps in your measurements can be filled before the hire dates arrive.
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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.