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.
Writing Down Your Boxed Belongings
Start with a written inventory of everything that is already boxed. Count the boxes room by room and note the number against each, so you end up with figures such as six from the kitchen and ten from the garage rather than a vague total. Beside the count, record the approximate size of the boxes, since a mixture of small cartons and large tea chests adds up differently. Mark any box containing fragile contents and note where it is headed, whether storage or a new address. If some boxes belong to other people or are being delivered separately, list those apart from your own. Keep the inventory with you on the day so you can tick items off. When you contact the team for a quote, share the totals and sizes, along with your dates and access arrangements, so they can discuss which van suits the job.
Measuring Bulky Items in Advance
Alongside the boxes, measure every bulky item you plan to move and write the numbers down before calling. For each piece, record length, width and height, and note whether it will travel whole or dismantled. If something comes apart, check you have the tools and fixings to take it to pieces and note the dismantled dimensions too. Look for parts that stick out, such as sofa arms, wardrobe cornices or table legs, and measure those separately so you are not caught out. Count the bulky items and list them by name, from mattresses to washing machines, so nothing is forgotten when you total up the load. If an item has been measured before, recheck it rather than trusting an old figure. Sharing these measurements with the team helps them match your job to the right van option.
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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.