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.
What Should You Write Down Before Booking?
Begin with a plain list of the facts the booking depends on. Write the hire dates first, including the time you expect to start and finish, then record what you need to carry, item by item, with dimensions for anything large or awkward. Note the access arrangements at each address, such as narrow entrances or restricted parking, and add the contact details for anyone receiving goods along the way. If the job involves a storage facility, jot down its opening hours and your unit reference. Where furniture is involved, mention whether pieces can be dismantled, since that detail helps the team match the job to the right van. Finish with any questions you want answered in the quote, such as how a crew van differs from a standard option for your particular load.
Organising a Move with Boxed Belongings
A move built around boxed belongings deserves its own planning session. Start by tallying the boxes room by room, noting roughly how many you expect from the kitchen, bedrooms and living areas, and whether any are unusually large or heavy. List the loose items that will not fit in boxes, such as lamps, bicycles or garden tools, and record their sizes separately. Think about the order in which things are needed at the far end, because boxes containing daily essentials may need to travel separately from those bound for storage. Note the contact details for anyone helping at either address, and confirm the hire dates allow for packing on one day and the drive on another if that is your preference. Bring the full inventory when you ask for a quote.
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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.