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.
Building a Written Load List
Before anything else, write out a full list of what you plan to carry. Go room by room or job by job and note each item, from furniture and appliances to boxes, tools or materials. For anything bulky, record the dimensions: the length of a sofa, the height of a wardrobe or the width of a workbench can all matter when the team matches your job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Count your boxes and bags rather than estimating, and flag anything fragile or unusual. If items are going to several addresses, note which pieces belong where, along with a contact name and number for each recipient. Keeping this list to hand means you can answer the team's questions quickly when discussing your dates.
Planning Dates and Access Arrangements
Next, turn your attention to the calendar and the practicalities around each stop. Decide whether the hire needs to cover a single day or a longer period, and build in buffer time for packing, dismantling furniture or waiting at a storage facility. Note the access arrangements at every address: whether there is a driveway, on-street parking, or a specific loading window agreed with a recipient. If a collection depends on someone else, such as a seller or shop, record their contact details and confirm the pickup time with them directly. Questions worth asking when you enquire include whether a crew van suits a job with several helpers, and what happens if your dates shift. Writing this down keeps the whole plan clear.
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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.