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.
Measuring entrances and bulky items
Will your largest item actually pass through the spaces it needs to? Before asking for a quote, measure the width, height and depth of each awkward piece, whether that is a wardrobe, a three-piece suite, a fridge freezer or a workbench, and note the figures down. Then think about the doors, corridors, stairwells and lifts involved at both ends of the journey, recording their clearances separately from the items themselves. If a sofa measures wider than a hallway, the options are yours to explore, and knowing the numbers early lets you plan around them. The van choice often follows from the biggest single item, so share those dimensions with the team alongside your dates. If anything seems borderline, say so when you enquire, and keep the measurements to hand in case follow-up questions arise.
Planning a household move
What should you write down once a house move is confirmed? Start with a room-by-room inventory covering furniture, white goods, boxes, garden tools and anything stored in the loft or garage, then mark each entry as essential, wanted or disposable. Record your preferred collection and delivery dates, plus the contact name, phone number and access notes for the property you are leaving and the one you are arriving at. If friends or relatives are helping on the day, note who is available and when. Where the move involves a storage unit, write the unit number and site opening hours on the same sheet. With the inventory length roughly settled, the team can discuss whether a Luton, a Transit or several trips in a crew van fits your plans, and you can adjust the list before booking.
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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.