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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Will that sofa actually pass through the door? Measuring before you book avoids discovering problems on moving day. Note the height, width and depth of each large item, then measure the entrances at both the collection point and the destination, including doorways, hallways and any turns along the way. Record whether doors can be removed if needed and whether lifts or stairs are involved. Write these figures on your list alongside the item names so they are easy to share. When you contact the team, pass on the load description and access arrangements, and they can help match the job to a suitable van type where available. Any questions about access at the destination belong with the site contact.
Planning the order of unloading
Think about the paperwork before the day arrives. List your items and mark which ones are needed first at the new location, such as bedding, kettle or tools for a job, and which can wait until later. Note where each item is destined to end up, whether a specific room, shelf or storage unit, and label boxes accordingly. If a recipient is accepting goods on your behalf, record their contact number and confirm when they will be present. Ask the destination contact where items should be placed and whether any time limits apply. Sharing the load description and access arrangements with the team when booking keeps everyone working from the same list on the day.
Explore other van hire areas
Things to check 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.