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.
Planning the Order You Will Unload
If a house move is on the horizon, you may find it useful to plan the paperwork side of the day before anything else. Note which addresses are involved, the contact name and number at each, and any arrival windows people have given you. For furniture collections, record which pieces are being picked up and which dropped off, so the schedule stays clear in your head. For trade work or business deliveries, list each recipient, their details and any time windows they have given. A written record of these arrangements gives you something to check against during the job, and any questions about access at a delivery address are best raised with the people based there rather than the hire team.
Noting Entrance and Item Dimensions
Before settling on a vehicle, measure the items you plan to carry and note the figures in centimetres. Record the height, width and depth of large furniture, along with awkward shapes such as wardrobes or shelving. Check entrance dimensions at both ends of the journey, including doorways, corridors and gates, and write these down too. If a piece seems close to the limit, ask the team whether a Transit, Luton or dropside would suit, and mention the access arrangements you have already confirmed. For storage runs, note the size of the unit and the items destined for it. Having these measurements ready when you request a quote allows the team to match the job to the van, and any gaps in your figures can be filled before the hire dates arrive.
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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.