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.
Organising a Household Move Step by Step
How do you turn a house full of furniture into a hire plan? Begin by walking through each room and writing an inventory, grouping items by size and fragility. Measure the largest pieces, such as wardrobes, sofas and mattresses, and record whether any of them can be dismantled, since those numbers matter when the team matches the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Set the hire dates next, allowing a little slack either side if you can, and note the access arrangements at both addresses, including parking restrictions or narrow approaches you have observed. If a friend is receiving furniture on your behalf, add their contact details. That inventory and schedule give you something concrete to read out when asking for a quote.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
Should you plan a single outing or spread the work over two? It depends on what you can organise. List everything that must travel, estimate the total volume, and consider whether the hire dates could stretch to cover a second run if needed. Some people prefer one longer day; others would rather split the job across a weekend so items can be delivered to different addresses on different dates. Note the contact details for anyone expecting goods at each stop, and ask the team what they would suggest given your list, since they can talk through which van sizes are available and how the access arrangements you describe might shape the plan. Whichever route you take, having the sequence of stops and their recipients written down keeps the day organised and gives you a record to check against.
Explore other van hire areas
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.