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.
Comparing One Trip with Several
Your first decision may be whether to move everything in a single hire or spread it across a couple of shorter periods. Start by listing what needs transporting and noting the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, such as mattresses, wardrobes or shelving units. If the total volume looks substantial, a Luton might be worth discussing with the team; if it is mostly boxes and small furniture, a Transit or small van could be sufficient. Recording how many trips you would be content to make, and whether helpers are available on each date, gives you a clearer basis for choosing. You might also note any storage unit opening hours that constrain your schedule. Where the split between one trip and several remains unresolved, raise it when requesting your quote.
Organising a Household Move
When a whole household is changing address, an early written plan usually pays dividends. Draft a room-by-room inventory, marking which items are definitely moving, which are being sold or donated and which need careful handling. Note the dimensions of oversized pieces and roughly how many boxes you expect from each room, as this information helps the team suggest whether a Luton or a dropside suits the job. Confirm the access arrangements at both properties, including any restrictions the destination contact has told you about, and record the contact details for someone at each address. Setting out the dates you are considering, plus a fallback if those fall through, keeps the enquiry moving. Any outstanding questions about vehicle options can go straight into your quote request.
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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.