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.
Sorting Out Helpers Before Moving Day
Who will actually be there when the van arrives? That question deserves an answer well before your hire date. Draw up a list of everyone lending a hand, note when each person is free, and confirm their availability again a day or two beforehand. If friends or family are helping with a household move, agree a rough start time and decide who will be at the collection point and who will wait at the other end. Record the contact numbers for each helper so you can send updates if timings shift. Should anyone drop out, consider whether you still have enough people for the day, or whether another arrangement might be needed. The more of these details you pin down early, the fewer last-minute surprises you'll face.
Planning a Household Move Step by Step
A written plan turns a household move from a vague worry into something manageable. Begin by listing every room and noting which items belong in each, then mark anything with unusual dimensions, such as a wide wardrobe or a long dining table. Decide what stays, what goes to storage and what travels to the new address. Sketch a simple itinerary showing when you'll collect keys, when helpers arrive and when you plan to finish. If items are going to several destinations, note the address and a named contact for each one, along with any time windows they've given you. Questions worth asking when requesting a quote include how many days you should book and whether a crew van would suit your group. Keep the list somewhere easy to reach.
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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.