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.
Measuring items and access points
Will your largest item actually fit through the opening it needs to pass? Before enquiring, measure the biggest things you plan to move, including any sofas, wardrobes or appliances, and note their height as well as width. Then check the doorways, corridors and stairwells involved at both ends of the journey, since an item that fits the van may still cause difficulty indoors. If furniture can be dismantled, decide in advance whether you are willing to take it apart, as this changes what you need to carry. Note any tight gates, narrow lanes or parking limits at either address too. When you contact the team, describing your items and access in plain terms helps them point you towards the right van size for the job.
Organising a household move
How do you keep a house move from becoming a scramble? Start by sorting your belongings into what travels in the van and what stays behind, then work out a rough order for loading, keeping the items you will need first at the accessible end. Label boxes by room so that whoever helps you at the other end knows where each one belongs. Agree timings with everyone involved, including anyone helping at the old and new addresses, and share your planned schedule with them well ahead of the date. If some belongings are going into storage rather than the new home, separate those clearly on the day. Telling the team what the move involves, including access arrangements, helps them match you with a suitable van.
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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.