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.
Organising a Household Move Step by Step
Where do you start with a house move? Begin by walking through each room and listing what will travel, then break the list into categories such as boxes, furniture, appliances and loose items. Record the dimensions of anything bulky, including beds, wardrobes and dining tables, and note which pieces can be dismantled and which cannot. Count the boxes as you pack so your final numbers stay accurate, and set aside a page for items going to different addresses, such as things bound for storage or a relative's garage. Note the contact details of anyone at the receiving end, along with the times they've agreed to be present. When you contact the team, this list becomes the basis for matching the job to the right van, and having it prepared in advance means the conversation covers your actual load rather than a rough guess.
Getting Your Helpers Coordinated
If friends or family are lending a hand, sort out the people side of the move as carefully as the items. Agree who is available on which dates, what time they'll arrive, and whether anyone can only spare part of the day. Write down each helper's contact number and note any skills or tools they've offered, such as a trolley or a socket set for dismantling furniture. Decide in advance who will be at the old property and who will travel to the new one, and whether someone needs to collect keys or wait for an estate agent. If children or pets need looking after during the move, arrange that early rather than on the morning itself. A shared message thread with the timings and addresses keeps everyone working from the same plan and makes it easy to flag changes as they happen.
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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.