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.
Organising a household move in stages
How much of the house is actually moving this time? Answering that honestly keeps a van hire on track. Go from room to room and separate what is travelling from what is staying, being sold or going to charity, then group the travelling items by destination room. That grouping helps you judge whether the job fits one trip or several, and gives you a sensible order for packing. Share your room-by-room summary with the team at SDVH Scotland and mention any awkward pieces such as wardrobes or sofas. A clear inventory also means you can brief anyone helping you at the other end on what is arriving and where it should go.
Allowing proper time for packing and loading
Most moves take longer than expected, so set generous time estimates rather than optimistic ones. Allocate separate blocks for packing boxes, dismantling furniture and actually loading the van, and treat them as distinct jobs rather than one blur of activity. If your hire window is limited, plan which items go in first and which need to come out first at the new address, and agree this sequence with anyone meeting you there. Ask the destination contact where the van can stop, since unloading arrangements are theirs to confirm. A schedule with slack in it absorbs the delays that almost always appear without turning the day into a rush.
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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.