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.
Listing Everything a House Move Involves
What actually has to travel from the old home to the new one? Walk through each room and write a list: boxes, furniture, white goods, garden tools, anything in the loft or shed. Count the boxes as you pack and keep a running total, noting which room each belongs to. Measure the largest items, such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses, and record those dimensions, along with anything that cannot be dismantled. Mark on the list anything destined for storage rather than the new house. When you request a quote, give the hire dates, the full inventory summary, the measurements of the biggest pieces and the access arrangements at both ends. Ask any questions about van options while you have the team's attention, and note anything still unmeasured.
Agreeing a Collection With a Seller
When are you collecting, and what exactly are you collecting? If you have bought furniture or equipment from a private seller or a shop, confirm the collection date and time in writing, and note the seller's name and phone number. Ask for the item's dimensions and any description of how it currently sits, for instance whether a wardrobe is already flat-packed or fully assembled, and write the answers down. Record the address, any parking or access arrangements mentioned by the seller, and whether anyone there can help identify the item on arrival. When you call for a quote, share those details along with the hire dates and what else, if anything, is travelling in the same load. Anything the seller has not confirmed can be listed as an open question.
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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.