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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 Items and Entrances
Will your sofa actually fit through the door? Measuring before you book saves a lot of guesswork. Start with the items themselves: note the length, width and height of the largest pieces, and count the smaller ones so you have a full inventory. Then turn your attention to the spaces they must pass through, recording the width and height of doorways, corridors, gates and any lift at either end. If furniture can be dismantled, note which parts come apart and the dimensions once separated. Where a collection involves a third party, such as a shop or a seller, ask them for measurements and photos in advance. These are questions for the people at each address rather than the hire team. Keep your measurements with your enquiry so the vehicle discussion starts from facts, not estimates.
Organising a Household Move
How do you turn a houseful of possessions into a workable plan? Begin by walking through each room and listing what will travel and what will not, from wardrobes and white goods down to boxes of books. Against each entry, note roughly how many boxes or bags it represents, and mark anything oversized or awkward. Set your hire dates and, if the move spans two days, record which rooms you intend to tackle first. Collect contact details for both the old and new address, including any neighbour or agent who may hold a key. If items are going into storage partway, add the storage facility's hours to your notes. Questions about access at the new property, such as parking or entry arrangements, should go to the relevant contact there, not the hire team.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.