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 a household move on paper
Where is everything actually going? Answer that before anything else, because a move with one destination is planned very differently from one with three. List each room in the current house and the items within it, marking anything that will be sold, given away or left behind. Note the approximate dimensions of the largest pieces, such as wardrobes and sofas, and any dismantled parts, since this information helps when discussing which option might suit the job. Record the new address and a contact number for whoever will be there to receive deliveries. If some belongings are heading to storage separately, note that address too. A written inventory lets you count items, spot duplicates and describe the job clearly when asking about hire dates.
Allowing time for packing and loading
Packing a household rarely finishes when people expect, so it pays to plan the run-up with a little slack. Draft a schedule that begins several days before the van is needed, splitting tasks by room and giving each a realistic window rather than a hopeful one. Note which items need wrapping or dismantling and how long those jobs took last time, if you have moved before. On the day itself, set aside more hours than feel necessary between finishing the boxes and the time the van is required, since delays at one end tend to push everything later. If helpers are coming, confirm their arrival times in writing. When you speak to the team about hire dates, mention the whole window you have in mind, including any chance of needing the van for an extra day.
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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.