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.
Putting together a household move list
What needs to move, and by when? Those two questions sit at the heart of any household move. Start by listing the rooms in the property and the main items in each, from kitchen appliances to bedroom furniture, so you can describe the load to the team. Add the dates you have in mind, the addresses involved, and a phone number for anyone helping or receiving goods at the other end. If some pieces are destined for a storage unit rather than the new home, mark them separately on the list. You can ask whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job, and check which is available for your dates. Anything unclear about access at either property is a question for the relevant contact there.
Setting aside time for packing
If you have never packed a house before, it is worth sketching a timetable. Work out which rooms can be boxed up days in advance and which must stay in use until the last evening, then set a schedule against your intended hire dates. Note how many boxes, bags and wraps you expect, since this helps the team picture the load when you ask about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Build in a buffer for delays, whether that is a completion that slips or an item that takes longer to dismantle than expected. Record a contact number for anyone collecting or receiving furniture. Sharing this schedule with the team keeps the quote conversation grounded.
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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.