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
What should you write down first when planning a house move with a hired van? Start with a room-by-room inventory of the items you intend to transport, noting anything unusually large such as wardrobes, sofas or white goods, along with rough dimensions. This list gives the team a clear picture of the job when discussing which van options suit. Record the hire dates, including a little flexibility either side if your completion date might slip, and note the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or narrow lanes. If friends are helping, list who will be present on which day. Keep the contact details of your estate agent, landlord or solicitor handy in case timings change at short notice.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How long the packing stage takes is often underestimated, so it pays to plan it deliberately rather than leave it to the final evening. Sketch a rough timetable that works backwards from your collection date, setting a point by which you would like everything ready. Make a note of any belongings you will keep with you personally, such as documents, chargers and valuables, so they are easy to find on the day. If you are hiring the van for more than one trip between properties, record the addresses and the opening hours of any storage facility involved. It is also worth listing the contact numbers for anyone meeting you at the destination, so you can let them know if your schedule moves.
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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.