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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
How many people will you have on hand, and when? If friends, family or colleagues have offered to help with your move or delivery, coordinating them in advance keeps the day organised. Ask each helper to confirm their arrival time and contact number, and note any hours they can spare so you can shape the schedule around them. Share your item list with everyone involved, including the dimensions of larger pieces and the total number of boxes or bags, so each person knows what to expect. Establish who is the main point of contact if plans change, and record the addresses at both ends along with any access arrangements you have gathered. When you come to book, pass on what you need to carry, the access details and the hire dates, and the team will help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Organising a Household Move
A household move runs more smoothly when the paperwork of planning comes first. Start by walking through each room and writing down what needs to travel to the new address, from furniture and appliances to boxes of belongings. For every large item, record its dimensions and whether it separates into parts, since this information feeds into your van choice. Gather the access arrangements for both properties, including any restrictions on parking or entry that you should confirm with the relevant contacts. Set your preferred hire dates and consider a contingency in case completion slips. Note the recipients' or new address contact details so someone can be reached on the day. When you come to book, pass on what you need to carry, the access details and the hire dates, and the team can discuss the van options with you based on what you have recorded.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.