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.
Pulling Together a House Move
How many rooms are you actually moving? Counting them gives you a starting point for the whole enquiry. List the furniture room by room, measuring the widest and tallest pieces, such as wardrobes, dining tables and mattresses, and recording each set of dimensions. Count your boxes as you pack and keep a running total, noting which ones contain fragile items. Write down the collection address, the new address and any storage unit involved, together with contact names and numbers for both ends if someone will be there to meet you. Note the dates you have in mind and whether there is any flexibility around them. If access at either property is restricted in any way, describe that too. These details let the team suggest a suitable van and confirm availability.
Setting Up a Business Delivery
Before contacting the team, gather the delivery specifics into one place. Note the recipient's name, the full delivery address and a phone number for whoever accepts the goods, since that contact can save confusion if the site is large or has multiple entrances. Record the agreed delivery window and the items going out, with quantities and dimensions for anything oversized. If the consignment includes a return collection, note what comes back and when. Think about whether the delivery date could shift and, if so, which alternative days would work. Keep any reference numbers or order details with the rest of your notes so they are easy to find on the day. Presenting this information when you request a quote helps the team match the job to the right van and confirm the hire dates.
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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.