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.
Planning a Household Move Around Your Van
How far ahead should you think about a household move? Ideally, start by listing every item you intend to take, room by room, including the awkward pieces such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses. Note down approximate dimensions for the larger furniture, since these figures are what the hire team will ask about when matching your load to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Alongside the inventory, record your preferred collection and drop-off addresses, the dates you have in mind, and any time windows that matter, such as a completion date or a storage unit appointment. If some items are going to different addresses, write those destinations separately. You can then pass the full list and access details to the team and ask which vehicle options would suit before confirming anything.
Deciding Between One Trip and Several
Is one journey or several the right approach for your move? That depends on what you can organise on the day. If you are considering splitting the load across multiple runs, note the opening hours of both ends of the journey, who will be present to receive items at each point, and whether anyone helping you has limited availability. For a single trip, your list of items becomes even more important, because the hire team needs an accurate picture of the total volume and the dimensions of the biggest pieces before suggesting a vehicle. Whichever route you lean towards, it is worth preparing a contact number for the person at the receiving address, in case plans shift on the day. Ask the team any open questions about the hire period when you request a quote, so the arrangements you settle on match the plan you have written down.
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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.