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.
One Trip or Several: Weighing the Options
Your first decision may be whether to move everything in a single run or spread the work across several. To explore this, draft a complete list of what needs carrying, then note the dimensions of the largest pieces, such as a sofa, a mattress or a set of shelves, along with an estimated weight for each. Count the boxes and record whether any are fragile. Think about the dates available to you: if you have a weekend, repeated trips might be possible, whereas a tighter window could point towards one larger vehicle. Questions worth asking the team include whether a Transit, Luton or dropside suits your load, and whether a crew van would help if helpers are travelling too. The final choice stays open until you discuss it.
Getting a Household Move Organised
Moving home involves more than the vehicle, so start by mapping the job on paper. Walk through each room and note what will travel, what will be sold or donated, and what needs special care, recording measurements for any oversized furniture. Set the hire dates and, if possible, a reserve day in case of delays. Write down the contact details for both properties, including who holds keys and when they are available, plus a phone number for anyone receiving goods at the far end. If some items are heading to storage, note the unit details and site opening hours. Once these points are settled, you can ask the team about matching the job to a small van, Luton or crew van, and raise any remaining questions before booking.
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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.