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.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
Write down every item you expect to move before you ask for a quote. Note quantities, approximate dimensions and any pieces that come apart, such as beds or wardrobes. Record fragile items separately and flag anything with an unusual shape, like a ladder or a rolled rug. If goods are heading to more than one address, group the list by destination and add the recipient's name and phone number for each. A written inventory also gives you something to check against when you arrive at the storage unit or the buyer's home. Where you are unsure whether a Luton or a Transit suits the job, the inventory itself becomes the information the team can use to advise you.
Planning a Household Move Step by Step
Organising a house move starts with dates: fix the collection day, the handover at the new address and any overlap period when you might need the van on standby. List rooms one by one and mark which contents travel with you and which are being sold, donated or left behind. Note the access arrangements at both ends, including parking restrictions, gate widths and whether a key holder must be present, and record their contact details. If helpers are joining, write down who is available on which day and what each person has agreed to do. Questions worth raising with the team include whether a crew van suits a part-loaded run and how the return time is handled if the move runs longer than expected.
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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.