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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Break a Household Move Into Lists
What should you write down first for a household move? Start with a room-by-room inventory of furniture, boxes and appliances, noting approximate dimensions for the largest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Mark anything that can be dismantled, and record the hire dates you are considering along with any flexibility. Add the access arrangements at both the old and new addresses, including a contact name and number for each. This detail helps the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Keep the inventory to hand during the move so you can check items off and note anything that changes, such as a piece being sold or left behind.
Weigh Up One Trip or Several
Should you book a single larger van or spread the job across several runs? To decide, look at your inventory and consider what could travel on a different day. Note the total volume of items, the number of fragile pieces, and whether both ends have storage if a split plan is used. Record the dates available for each option and any access limits at the properties. Ask the team about the van types that suit each approach, and mention whether helpers will be present on every trip. Comparing the two plans side by side, with your lists in front of you, gives you concrete details to discuss rather than a vague sense of which might work.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.