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.
Measuring entrances and awkward items
Which items will actually cause problems on the day? Measure the largest pieces before you enquire, noting their height, width and depth, and then compare those figures against the doorways, stairwells or corridors they must pass through at both ends. If a wardrobe will not clear the stair turn at the destination, it is far better to know now than mid-afternoon on moving day. Ask whoever is receiving the items about access on their side, including any restrictions they know of. Describing these measurements when you get in touch helps the team understand the shape of the job and advise on a suitable van for it.
Keeping a clear load inventory
A written list of everything going into the van is one of the most useful things you can prepare. Group items by room or by destination so that unloading at the far end becomes straightforward, and mark anything fragile or awkward on the same list. An inventory also helps you judge whether the job is realistic in one trip or would be better split across two, which affects how long you need the van for. When you send your enquiry, summarising the main items and their rough sizes gives the team a much clearer starting point than a general description of a house move. It reduces back-and-forth later.
Explore other van hire areas
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.