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.
Weigh up one trip against several
The first choice to settle is whether the job is best done in a single run or split across several shorter trips. If the distance between collection and delivery is short, making two or three journeys with a smaller van can sometimes suit the load better than one long run with a larger vehicle. For longer distances, a single trip usually makes sense, so the size of the largest items becomes the deciding factor. Sketch the load out on paper, grouping items by destination if there is more than one drop, and note which pieces must travel together. Distance, fuel and the time available all feed into this decision. When you share your thinking with the team, they can match the plan to an available van in Wick and flag anything you may have missed.
Moving boxed belongings
Boxed belongings are usually the easiest part of a move to plan, so start by counting the boxes and noting their general size rather than worrying about furniture first. Group them by room and by destination, which keeps unloading straightforward and helps whoever receives them at the other end direct each stack to the right place. Mark any boxes that need to come off first, such as kettle, tools or paperwork for the day, and mention fragile items to your helpers. Before loading begins, ask the person at the destination where boxes should be stacked and whether there are access constraints they know about, such as a narrow doorway or a busy entrance. That conversation with the recipient saves a great deal of rehandling. It also tells the team what the job involves when you enquire.
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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.