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 Before You Book
Will the three-piece suite actually fit? The answer starts with a tape measure. Before you request a van, walk through the property and note the width, height and depth of doorways, hallways and any gates the furniture has to pass through, then record the same measurements for each large item. Both sets of numbers matter, since an item can clear one obstacle and still be too tall for a stairwell. Photograph anything unusually shaped and keep the list with your booking notes. When you send these dimensions to the team, they can discuss which vehicle option suits the job. If any measurement is borderline, say so, and ask what the alternatives would be if the numbers do not work out.
Pulling a Household Move Together
Planning a household move works best when the details are written down early. Start with a room-by-room inventory that lists furniture, boxes and anything fragile, along with the address you are leaving from and the one you are heading to. If friends or family are helping, agree which hours they can commit to and note a contact number for each person. Should anything be going into storage rather than the new house, mark those items separately on the list. It also helps to check the access arrangements at both ends, including parking restrictions and whether a keyholder will be present, and to pass on their details if someone else accepts the vehicle. Asking the team about a longer hire period is worthwhile if the move might stretch over two days.
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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.