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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Items and Entrances Beforehand
Will that wardrobe actually come apart, and does the doorway at the other end allow it through? These are the kinds of questions worth settling before you request a quote. Measure the height, width and depth of your largest pieces, note whether anything disassembles, and record the dimensions of any entrances, corridors, stairwells or lifts involved at both ends of the trip. If access involves a shared car park, a rear lane or a restricted gate, write down those arrangements too. Passing these figures to the team when you enquire gives them something concrete to work with when matching your job to a vehicle. Where a measurement is uncertain, say so rather than guessing, and ask any questions about the hire period while you are at it.
Building a Clear Load Inventory
A written inventory turns a vague job into a quotable one. Go room by room, or pallet by pallet for trade work, and list each item with a brief description: two-seater sofa, six dining chairs, twenty archive boxes, one washing machine. Note anything fragile, anything with awkward proportions, and any items that will need handling at the destination. If you are collecting furniture from a shop or a private seller, include the seller's contact details and collection reference in the same document. Once the list is complete, count the total pieces and keep the inventory with you on the day. You can share it with the team during your enquiry so the vehicle suggested matches the volume you have recorded, and update it if plans change.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.