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.
Checking entrances and item sizes
Before choosing a van, walk the route your items will take at both ends. Measure the van's potential stopping point, the entrance itself, any corridors and the room where each piece will end up, and write the figures down while they are fresh. Compare them against the dimensions of the largest items, and note anything that will not turn a corner without being dismantled. If a lift is involved, check its internal measurements as well as the door opening. Describing this route to the team when you enquire gives them a practical picture of the job, and it often speeds up the conversation about which vehicle to choose.
Organising a household move
A house move goes more smoothly when it is broken into stages. Decide which rooms will be emptied first and which items travel together, keeping essentials like kettle, bedding and tools separate so they come off the van last. Label boxes by destination room rather than by contents alone, and keep a note of what is in the vehicle. Ask anyone helping to agree their hours in advance, and check with the receiving property where the van can park and which entrance to use. Sharing this outline with the team when you enquire helps them gauge the scale of the move and the time you are likely to need.
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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.