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.
Planning Your Household Move on Paper
Which rooms are you actually moving? Before requesting a quote, walk through the house and write a room-by-room list of everything going with you, from the sofa and wardrobes down to boxes of books and loose garage items. A written list lets you count roughly how many boxes and how many large pieces you will have, which is useful information for the hire team. Note your preferred collection and return dates, whether you need the vehicle for a single day or several, and any access details such as parking limits at either end. If anything is uncertain, ask the team which vehicle category suits the volume you have described rather than guessing.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Will that wardrobe actually need recording as an oversized piece? Take a tape measure and note the height, width and depth of each large item, including anything awkward such as a corner sofa, a piano or a dining table with legs removed if that is possible. Write the figures alongside your item list and pass them on when you enquire, since dimensions help the team talk through the van options with you. Also record whether anything can be dismantled and whether you will be keeping the packaging from a recent purchase. If an item is unusually shaped or particularly long, mention it specifically and ask what information the team needs to check the booking before you commit to dates.
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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.
















