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 does a household move actually involve on paper? Before the hire date, walk through each room and write an inventory of what is coming, grouping items by fragility, size and destination room. Note the measurements of large furniture and any pieces that come apart, and record which boxes contain essentials you will want early. If some items are staying behind, going to storage or heading to a friend's address, list those separately with their own destinations and contact details for each recipient. Add the access arrangements at both ends — parking notes, door widths, lift availability — as they have been described to you. An inventory of this kind gives the hire team a clear picture of the job when you ask about dates and vehicle options.
Planning a collection with a seller
A second list, kept separate from the inventory, can record where each numbered box should end up. Note the destination for every carton, whether that is a room in a new address, a storage unit or a relative's house, so the paper trail matches the boxes themselves. If the destination is a flat, a relative's house or a unit with limited access, note the questions you need to put to the contact there, from parking arrangements to lift availability, since only they can answer those. Add names and numbers for anyone accepting delivery on the day. For your quote, include the hire dates, the full item list with dimensions, and ask which vehicle options the team can offer for those dates.
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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.