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.
Organising a household move
What should you sort out before hiring a van for a house move? Start with a room-by-room list of everything coming with you, noting which items are large, fragile or awkwardly shaped, and measure the bulkiest pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Fix your moving dates, including any overlap between old and new homes, and write down the access arrangements at each address: parking, gate widths or lift availability if relevant. If friends are helping on the day, confirm their times early. Passing this information to the team, together with your load list, helps them match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Keeping a load inventory
A written inventory is worth preparing even for a straightforward collection or delivery run. List each item with its rough dimensions and any handling notes, such as whether a wardrobe comes apart or a table has a fixed leg frame, and count boxes rather than guessing. Note the contact name and number at the collection point and the delivery address, so you can ring ahead if timings shift. Mark anything fragile or high-value on the same list. When you request a quote, send this inventory across with your dates and access details; the team can then confirm which van option suits the load and answer any questions about the hire arrangement.
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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.