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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Organising a household move
Planning a move soon? Start by listing every room and roughly what sits in each one, from wardrobes and mattresses to boxes of kitchenware. Note the hire dates you have in mind, including whether you need the van for a single day or across a weekend. Access details matter too, so record whether there is a driveway, a shared parking area or particular times when vehicles can pull up. If furniture will be dismantled, mention which pieces and whether that affects your timing. Questions about the receiving property's entry arrangements, keys or lift access belong with the landlord, agent or site manager there. Once your list is drafted, share it with the team when asking for a quote, along with any preference between a Luton and a dropside.
Keeping a load inventory
A written inventory turns a busy day into something you can check off. For each item, jot down a name, approximate dimensions and which room or site it belongs to at the far end. Boxes can be numbered with a short note on contents, which helps if you are splitting a delivery across two addresses. Photographs of awkward pieces, such as a corner sofa or a tall bookcase, give you a reference without measuring twice. Keep a copy of the inventory on your phone and share one with anyone meeting the van at the destination. If some items are going into storage, mark them separately so the paperwork lines up with your unit records. Any question about the storage facility's own intake process should go to that facility.
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Things to check 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.