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
How do you turn a house move into something a hire team can quote against? Start by walking through each room and writing down what you intend to take, room by room, rather than trying to recall it later. Note awkward items separately - anything long, wide or dismantled - and record approximate dimensions so you can describe them accurately when you enquire. Add the addresses you're moving between, the hire dates you have in mind, and the access arrangements at each end, including who to contact there. If some items might stay behind or be sold, mark those clearly. This written picture lets the team match your load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available, and highlights anything you still need to decide.
Bringing Your Helpers Together
If friends or family are lending a hand with the move, it pays to sort out their involvement before you finalise the hire. Make a note of who is available on which dates, who holds keys to either property, and who should be contacted if plans change. Agree where everyone will gather and at what time, and record phone numbers so the group can stay in touch on the day. Think about whether anyone helping needs to travel in the van with you, since that may point towards a crew van rather than a standard option. When you ask for a quote, mention the size of your helping party and the dates involved; any questions about how the day is coordinated remain yours to settle with the people coming.
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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.