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.
Checking doorways before you load
Will your largest item actually fit where it is going? That question is best answered with a tape measure rather than a hopeful guess. Measure the height, width and depth of each big piece, from wardrobes to white goods, and then measure the doorways, corridors and stair turns at the destination, allowing for frames and radiators that narrow the gap. Check whether items can be dismantled, since a bed that separates into components takes up less room and passes through spaces the assembled version cannot. Once you have the figures, compare them with the internal sizes quoted for each vehicle group and raise any borderline items with the team. They can then advise which option leaves you room to spare rather than leaving you to find out mid-move.
Spreading out a household move
A full house move goes more smoothly when it is broken into stages rather than tackled in one rush. Start by sorting your belongings into categories, such as items going to the new home, things bound for storage, and anything being passed on or discarded. Assign each category a date, beginning with the least urgent loads, so the final day carries only the essentials you need overnight. Talk to the recipient or new occupier about when each phase can arrive, and note anything that needs particular care or a second pair of hands. Describing this staged approach to the team when you enquire helps them suggest a vehicle and hire length that matches the pace you have set.
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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.