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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Organising a Household Move on Paper
What should you prepare before booking a van for a house move? A written plan of the rooms and their contents is a good starting point. List each item you intend to move, from wardrobes to kettle boxes, and note the dimensions of anything oversized such as sofas, mattresses or shelving units. If some pieces will be dismantled beforehand, say so, and record whether the fittings and tools will travel with them. Note the addresses involved, the date you have in mind, and any time windows set by the estate agent or landlord. Questions to raise include whether a larger van would suit the volume listed, and how the hire period aligns with your moving schedule.
Keeping a Load Inventory That Helps
A load inventory is simply a record of everything that will travel in the van, and it becomes more useful the more detail you add. Alongside each item, note its approximate size, whether it is fragile, and which room it belongs to at the destination. If you are collecting furniture from a shop or a seller, record the reference numbers and the contact details of whoever will hand it over. For deliveries to a third party, note their name, address and phone number so the recipient can be reached on the day. You might also ask whether the inventory affects the vehicle the team recommends, and whether items left off the list can still be added before the hire begins.
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Things to check 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.