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.
Setting Aside Realistic Time for the Job
What needs writing down first? A timeline of the day is a good starting point: the date you want the van, the hours you expect to spend at each address, and any slot a storage unit or seller has given you. If a furniture collection is involved, ask the other party when they can receive you and record that window alongside your own availability. Building the schedule on paper lets you see whether one hire day is enough or whether an overnight period is worth asking about. It also helps to note a named contact for each stop, with a phone number, so that delays can be discussed on the day rather than left to chance when you arrive with the van.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
A written list of what is travelling in the van is useful both before and after the trip. Start with the obvious rooms or categories, then count boxes, note furniture dimensions where you can, and mark anything fragile or awkward such as a mirror or a rolled rug. If the list runs long, number the items so you can tick them off at each end of the journey. Photographing larger pieces before the move gives you a reference if a question arises later about condition. Share the inventory with anyone helping on the day, and keep a copy for the hire enquiry, since the team can use it when suggesting a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van for the job.
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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.