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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
What should you measure before requesting a van? Start with your largest items, noting the height, width and depth of each piece of furniture or equipment. Then think about the spaces they must pass through, including doorways, hallways and any gates or arches at both ends of the trip, and record those figures alongside the item measurements. If anything can be dismantled, note which parts come apart and how that changes the sizes you pass on. Where the drop-off address has a caretaker or neighbour receiving goods, keep their contact details to hand. Share all of this with the team when you enquire, and ask which vehicle options are worth considering for the dimensions you have recorded.
Moving Boxed Belongings
How many boxes are you actually moving? A quick count, sorted by size, gives you a solid basis for the hire. Note whether the boxes are small book cartons, medium ones or larger containers, and estimate the total number of each. Record any fragile items separately, along with a note of which room or address they belong to. If the boxes are going into storage, write down the unit number and the contact details for the storage site so access can be arranged. Where a friend is helping at the far end, keep their number with your plan. Give the team your box count and dates when you ask for a quote, and ask which van options they would discuss for what you have described.
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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.