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.
Putting your house move on paper
How far ahead should you plan a house move with a hired van? Ideally, start your list two or three weeks before the hire date. Walk through each room and write down the furniture and boxes you intend to move, noting approximate dimensions for the larger pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Count the boxes as you pack and update the total as it grows. Mark anything that dismantles, anything particularly fragile and anything you plan to leave behind or sell. Record the access arrangements at both the old and new addresses, including any gates, steps or narrow passages, and the contact details for anyone receiving you at the far end. These notes give the team a clear picture when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Arranging a collection from a seller
If part of your hire involves collecting furniture bought from a private seller, a few questions in advance keep the day straightforward. Confirm the exact address and ask for a mobile number you can call on the day, since landlines and message apps sometimes go unanswered. Agree a collection window rather than a single time, and ask the seller to confirm the evening before that the item is still available and ready. Note the item's dimensions and whether it comes apart, and ask whether it is in a ground-floor room, upstairs flat or garage, since that affects what you record on your plan. Check whether anyone at the address can help at the agreed time, and write down the seller's preferred payment method if that is still outstanding. Keeping these details together means you arrive prepared rather than phoning for directions.
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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.