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.
Organising a Household Move
Begin by writing an inventory of every room, listing furniture, boxes and anything that will travel loose, since this list becomes the backbone of your move. Against each large item, note its approximate dimensions and whether it comes apart, as a wardrobe that dismantles behaves quite differently from one that does not. Mark which pieces are staying, being sold or going to storage, so the final load list stays accurate. Record the address you are moving from and the one you are moving to, along with contact numbers for anyone at the receiving end, such as a letting agent or family member. Once the list is drafted, ask the team whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the volume, where available, and share your access arrangements at both properties so the enquiry reflects the real job.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
A realistic schedule starts with an honest look at how long packing actually took last time, or an estimate if this is your first move. Write down the date you want the van, the time you plan to begin packing and the hour you expect to leave, then check whether that leaves any room for delays. If friends are helping, agree their arrival times and note who is responsible for each room or item group. Record the phone numbers of anyone receiving furniture at the new address, and keep the access arrangements for both ends to hand. With those details written out, you can ask the team whether your hire window covers the full schedule or whether an earlier start, a second day or an extended period would suit the move.
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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.