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.
Setting Aside Enough Packing Time
Time is one detail worth writing down alongside the load itself. Begin with your hire dates and whether the start time could move earlier if packing runs behind. List everything you plan to carry, noting the dimensions of the largest items such as mattresses, shelving or white goods, so the team can suggest a small van, Transit or Luton. Record the access arrangements at the collection point and destination, including gate widths or parking limits, which may influence the vehicle choice. If the move involves a storage unit, note its opening hours and your reference details. Keep a phone number for whoever receives the items. Questions about how long the hire might need can be raised when you ask for a quote.
Organising a Household Move
A room-by-room list turns a household move into something you can plan around. Start with the date and the two addresses involved, then work through each room noting furniture, boxes and appliances, with measurements for anything oversized. Record the access arrangements at both properties, such as driveways, shared entrances or restricted parking, and a contact number for the new occupants or estate agent if relevant. Note whether any items will go to storage rather than the new home, since that may affect the hire length. Decide in advance what stays, what is sold and what travels, and mark the borderline items. Ask the team whether a crew van or dropside would suit your list, and raise any timing questions before booking.
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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.