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.
Measuring Entrances and Items First
Which measurements should you take before requesting a van? Start with the items themselves: note the height, width and depth of each large piece, and record whether anything can be dismantled, such as a bed frame or a wardrobe with removable doors. Then turn to the entrances involved. At the pickup address, check the width of doorways, hallways and any stairwells the furniture must pass through. At the destination, do the same and note whether there is a lift, a ground-floor door or a narrow corridor. If you are unsure about access at the other end, ask the recipient to measure and confirm. Write all these figures down alongside your list of items, and share them when you ask for a quote so the team can consider them alongside the hire dates.
Organising Boxed Belongings
If most of your load is boxed, a clear inventory makes the whole process simpler. Go room by room and note how many boxes you expect from each, along with any bags, baskets or loose items that will not fit in boxes. Mark which boxes go to which destination if you are splitting a load between a new home and a storage unit. Record the approximate size of your largest boxes, since a few oversized cartons can change which van works for the job. Where friends or family are receiving some of the boxes, keep their contact details to hand so you can confirm delivery arrangements on the day. When you contact the team in Branston, ask what information they find most useful for boxed moves and whether your list suggests a particular van from their range.
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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.