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.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Will your largest item actually fit through the spaces it needs to pass? That is the first question to answer before requesting a van. Measure the width, height and depth of the biggest pieces, then measure the doorways, corridors, stairwells and gateways at both ends of the trip, and write both sets of numbers down. Note any items that can be part-dismantled, along with which fittings you would need to remove. If a piece looks marginal, flag it in your notes rather than assuming it will be fine. Include these measurements with your enquiry, because the team can discuss what you need to carry in more detail once they know the figures. Keeping the numbers written down also helps if you need to revise the plan.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs more smoothly when the paperwork comes before the van. Start with a room-by-room list of everything being moved, marking items to keep, donate or discard, and note which pieces are staying with the property. Record the collection address, the new address and a contact at each, including phone numbers for the day. Confirm the hire dates, whether you need the van for one day or several, and any provisional dates in case completion shifts. Ask the team about the vehicle options for a house move and share your item list, access arrangements and timeline when you request a quote, so they can help match the job to a suitable van where available.
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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.