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.
Measuring bulky items before you book
The first decision many customers face is which van size to request, and that usually starts with a tape measure. Before asking for a quote, note the height, width and depth of the largest items you plan to move, whether that is a sofa, a fridge or a wardrobe, and record the quantity of each piece. If anything can be dismantled, ask the seller or owner whether the legs, doors or shelves come off, and write down the revised dimensions. Sharing this list, along with your hire dates, helps the team suggest whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available. It is also worth noting the collection address and a contact number there, so any access questions can be answered by the right person.
Moving boxed belongings
If your load is mainly boxes and bags, a written inventory keeps the enquiry clear and the move organised. Estimate how many boxes you will have, their approximate sizes, and whether any loose items such as suitcases, plants or rolled rugs join the load. Note the dates you have in mind, the delivery destination and who will receive the goods there, including their contact details. Recording the total quantity of items helps the team match the job to the right van where available, and it gives you a checklist to work through on the day. Questions that remain open might include how long the hire period should be, whether the destination has any access arrangements worth confirming with the recipient, and which collection point suits you best.
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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.