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.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings
Before you enquire, write down every boxed item you expect to move. A numbered list works well: box one, kitchen items; box two, books; and so on. Note roughly how full each box is, whether any contain fragile pieces, and which room they belong to at the other end. If some boxes are still unpacked, estimate how many more you think you will need and add that figure to the total. Record the approximate dimensions of the largest boxes and any awkward shapes, since these details help the team match the job to the right vehicle. Keep the list somewhere you can update it, because late additions are common. Sending an accurate count with your enquiry avoids back-and-forth later and gives the team a clear picture of the scale of the move.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How long will packing realistically take you? That question is worth answering honestly before you settle on hire dates. Estimate the hours needed to box up each room, then add a buffer for the jobs that always run over: the garage, the loft, the drawer of cables nobody has opened in years. Note whether you plan to pack in stages across several days or in one push, and whether any items need dismantling first. Record when helpers are available if others are assisting, and whether access at either end is limited to certain hours. If you are unsure about any of these timings, raise them with the team when requesting a quote. Building a rough schedule on paper first makes the whole hire period easier to plan around.
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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.