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.
Getting Your Helpers Organised Early
Who can you count on for the day? Putting helper arrangements in place well ahead of time prevents gaps appearing at short notice. Ask each person which hours they can offer, and write their names and numbers into a shared note alongside the hire dates. Check whether anyone has restrictions, such as needing to leave by mid-afternoon, and plan the schedule around those limits. Record who will hold keys for the old property, the new one and any storage unit involved. If part of the load belongs to a friend or a buyer, collect their address and phone number too. Should a helper cancel, knowing who else to call keeps things calm. Mention the size of your team when you request a quote, since it helps the team picture the day.
Listing Rooms and Items for a House Move
What is actually moving with you? A room-by-room list is the most useful thing you can prepare before hiring a van. Go through each space and note the furniture, boxes and awkward pieces, recording approximate dimensions for the largest items and whether anything comes apart. Mark items that are staying, being sold or going to a charity collection, so they do not creep into the van by mistake. If some pieces are destined for a relative or a storage unit, list those separately with the recipient's contact details. Photograph anything fragile or valuable for your own records. When you send your enquiry, include the list or a summary of it, because the team can then match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
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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.