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.
One Trip or Several: Weighing It Up
A key decision is whether to move everything in a single journey or spread the work across several trips. If your load consists mainly of boxes and small furniture, more than one run with a smaller van might feel manageable. Larger or bulkier items, such as wardrobes and sofas, could point towards a bigger vehicle for one visit. Write down the full list of items, with dimensions for the biggest pieces, and count how many boxes you have. Share this with the team along with your hire dates, and ask which vehicle options they would suggest. You could also ask whether a crew van suits a job where an extra pair of hands is coming along.
Organising a Household Move
Household moves involve many small decisions, so it helps to plan the details in advance. Start by noting your preferred dates and whether you have any flexibility if the schedule shifts. List each room's contents separately, marking items that can be dismantled and those that cannot. Record the contact details of anyone receiving goods at the new address, including estate agents or family members, so you can update them if timings change. Think about your itinerary for the day, including collection times and the order you want to work through rooms. Any questions about vehicle suitability or hire arrangements can go to the team when you request a quote.
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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.