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.
Organising a household move
Which rooms will you empty first, and what can go ahead of the van? Those two questions frame a household move better than any list of tips. Start by sorting your belongings into what travels, what is donated and what stays behind, so the load reflects only the things you are keeping. Walk each room and note the bulky pieces, then group the smaller items into boxes that are labelled by destination room. If friends are helping, agree who is responsible for each part of the day and when they should arrive. Any time windows at the new address, such as a keys handover, should be written into the plan. Sharing the overall picture with the team when you enquire helps them suggest a suitable vehicle group.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Before settling on a vehicle, measure the things that will be moved and the spaces they must pass through. Note the height, width and depth of the largest items, and check the doorways, stairwells and hallways at both ends of the journey. A tape measure and ten minutes at each address will tell you more than any guesswork, and the figures are easy to pass on when you enquire. If something will not clear a corner, decide in advance if it can be dismantled, and factor that time into your day. The people receiving goods at the destination can answer questions about their own entrances and access. Giving the team both sets of measurements lets them talk through which vans could take the job.
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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.