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.
A Written List for Boxed Belongings
Before anything else, write down every box you plan to move, giving each one a short label and a rough count of its contents. This simple list becomes the reference you work from when talking to us and when checking that nothing has been left behind at either end. Alongside the box count, note any items that will not fit in boxes, such as rolled rugs, lamp stands or picture frames, and record the approximate dimensions of the bulkiest pieces. If some belongings are going to a different address or to storage, make that clear on the same list. When you request a quote, you can share the totals and sizes and ask which van option would be appropriate, whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and confirm the dates you have in mind.
Keeping an Inventory While You Pack
An inventory grows naturally as you pack, so start it early rather than trying to reconstruct it afterwards. Each time a box is sealed, add a line: its label, the room it came from and a note of anything fragile inside. You might also record the name and phone number of anyone receiving items at the far end, plus the address and any access details you have been given for that property. Questions worth listing before you get in touch include whether all boxes are travelling on the same date, whether any will need to wait in storage, and whether the access arrangements at each address are as you understand them. Having these answers drafted makes the conversation about van choice and timing far more straightforward, and leaves fewer gaps to fill in later.
Explore other van hire areas
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.