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.
Breaking a house move into stages
Which rooms need to move first, and which items can wait until the following weekend? Answering that early turns a daunting relocation into manageable pieces. Start by sorting belongings into what travels in the van on day one and what stays behind for a second run. Fragile pieces and everyday essentials are worth setting aside so they are easy to find at the other end. Speak with whoever is receiving the items about when they can accept deliveries, and agree a rough order for unloading so the van empties in a sensible sequence. When you contact the team, describe the scale of the move and your dates so they can suggest an appropriate option.
Keeping a list of what goes in the van
A simple written inventory saves a lot of confusion on moving day. Note each item as it goes into the van, from boxes and furniture to awkward pieces such as mirrors or lamp stands, and keep the list somewhere reachable during the journey. Photographing the condition of larger items beforehand gives you a record if a question arises later with the recipient. Group smaller objects together and label them by destination room so unloading takes less time. If anything is staying behind or going elsewhere, mark that clearly too. Sharing the inventory with the team when you enquire helps them gauge whether one vehicle or several trips fits your plans.
Explore other van hire areas
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.