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.
Deciding What Your Hobby Gear Needs
Start with a written inventory of everything that will travel: how many boxes you have, what each one holds, and its three measurements in centimetres. Note which ones contain fragile items, and mark any that you would prefer not to handle alone. Add any furniture going along, with its largest dimension, and the access arrangements at both addresses, including stairs, gates or narrow entrances. Write down the dates you have in mind and whether a friend will be there at either end. Handing this list over when you enquire gives the hire team a clear picture of the job, and any questions about which van suits the load can be raised at the same time.
Weighing Up One Trip Against Several
Another choice worth thinking through is whether to move everything in a single outing or split it across several. Start by counting the items: if you have ten boxes, two bicycles and a chest of drawers, that tally gives you something concrete to compare against. Ask yourself which pieces are needed on which date, whether any of them could wait a week, and who has to be present at each end. If you spread the work over more than one day, note the dates and the gap between them, since that may affect the hire period you request. Jot down any questions about van availability for each option and raise them all in one enquiry, so the comparison rests on the same information.
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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.