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.
Listing What a Household Move Involves
How do you turn a house full of belongings into a clear hire request? Begin with an inventory. Walk through each room and note the furniture, counting beds, wardrobes, sofas and tables, then estimate the number of boxes and bags beside them. Measure the largest pieces, especially anything that will not fit through a standard doorway, and record those dimensions. Note fragile items separately so they can be mentioned on the call. Once the list exists, decide the hire dates, including a spare day in case the move slips, and write down the access arrangements at both addresses, such as parking or gate details. Questions to ask include whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits your inventory and what the team can confirm as available.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
If friends or family are lending a hand, a bit of coordination keeps the day orderly. Make a note of who is available, at what times, and how each person can be contacted while the move is under way. Assign a point of contact for each address, so the helpers at the old house and the new one know who to ring with questions. Record any helper who will bring their own vehicle, and note how much they might carry, since that could affect the van size you request. Share the hire dates with everyone once confirmed, along with the expected arrival window at each end. Where access details are still unknown, the contact at each property is the person to ask, and their answers can be added to your notes before the booking call.
Explore other van hire areas
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.