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 on Paper
What should you write down before requesting a van for a house move? Begin with a room-by-room inventory of the furniture and boxes you intend to take, noting approximate dimensions for the largest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Count the boxes as you pack and update the total, since a figure from memory often drifts from reality. Record your hire dates, including any flexibility around them, and note the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or lift availability, as details you can share when asking. Keep a separate list of awkward items like mirrors or pianos. Sending the inventory, dates and access notes together lets the team suggest whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
When you have bought furniture from a private seller or an auction house, arranging the pickup details in advance makes the hire enquiry straightforward. Confirm the collection address and opening hours, then agree a time window with the seller and write it down alongside their phone number in case plans shift. Measure the item before you commit, recording its length, width and height, and ask the seller whether it comes apart or must travel whole. Note any additional pieces included in the sale, such as chairs with a table or drawers with a wardrobe. Add your preferred hire dates and the access situation at both the seller's address and your home. Sharing these details, along with what you need to carry, lets the team help match the job to the right van.
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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.