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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
Begin by writing down every item you expect to move, however ordinary it seems. A load inventory might list furniture by room, note the number of boxes from the kitchen, and record anything long or tall such as wardrobes, ladders or rolled carpet. For each bulky piece, measure the approximate length, width and height and add the figures beside the name, since dimensions often matter more than the count. Note fragile or high-value items separately so they are visible on the list when you ask for a quote. If some goods are going to storage and others to a new address, mark which destination applies to each entry. Where a collection involves a third party, such as a shop or a seller, jot down their contact number and any reference. Questions about access, opening hours or lifts at either end belong to the contacts there, so record their answers as you gather them.
Organising a Household Move
What should a household move checklist contain before you request a hire? Start with the key dates: the day the keys are released, the days you plan to move room by room, and any overlap period between properties. List the people involved, including helpers, and note whether each is available for the whole day or only part of it. Sketch the itinerary in stages, such as garage first, then upstairs rooms, then kitchen, and record which vehicle would suit each stage if you are considering more than one trip across the dates. Gather the contact details for the estate agent, the vendor and any storage facility, and note their availability for handovers. You can then ask the team which van options, from a small van to a Luton or crew van, might be matched to the job once the inventory and dates are confirmed.
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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.