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.
Building a Clear Load Inventory
What exactly is going into the van? Before you enquire, list every item you plan to carry, noting anything bulky such as wardrobes, sofas or workbenches, and record approximate dimensions for the largest pieces. A written inventory also lets you flag anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, which can be raised with the team when discussing vehicle options. Count the boxes, bags and loose items so the total is easy to share, and add anything you expect to pick up along the way, such as a furniture purchase. Keep the list somewhere reachable so you can update it if plans change. Presenting this record with your dates and access details gives the team a fuller picture when matching the job to a van.
Planning a Move with Boxed Belongings
If your move is mostly boxed items, how much are you shifting in total? Work out the number of boxes per room and note their rough sizes, since a mixture of small and large cartons adds up quickly. Record any boxed items that need particular care, such as electronics or kitchenware, and set aside a note of anything that cannot be flattened or stacked, like boxed bicycles or lamps. Think about where each box is headed at the other end, whether that is a new address or a storage unit, and write down the contact details for whoever is receiving them. Sharing the box count, dimensions and destination arrangements with the team helps when they match your job to a van.
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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.