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.
Thinking Through Your Load List
If your move involves items from more than one address, it can help to build the list before you ring. Start with the largest pieces: note what each one is, roughly how long, wide and tall it stands, and whether anything comes apart. Then add the boxes and loose items, counting them rather than estimating. If a friend is donating a sofa or you are collecting from a shop, ask them for the measurements in advance so nothing arrives as a surprise. Photographing awkward pieces gives you something to refer back to later. Once the list is complete, you can pass the full details over when you enquire, and any questions about which van suits the load can be raised there.
One Trip or Several: Working Out the Difference
When you are weighing up a single run against two or three, the arithmetic is worth doing early. Count the total items, imagine how many would fit comfortably in each load, and compare that against your available hours and how many people can help on the day. If you are collecting from several places with different opening times, separate trips might line up more neatly with those windows than one combined run. Note down each stop, the contact number for whoever is expecting you, and any deadline attached to a collection. Sharing that outline with the hire team when you ask for a quote lets them see the shape of the job and respond with relevant questions of their own.
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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.