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.
Organising a household move
Where do you begin with the paperwork of a house move? Start with a written inventory, room by room, marking the awkward pieces such as beds, shelving and white goods with their approximate measurements. That record guides the discussion about whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van fits the job. Lock in the hire dates once the completion schedule is firm, and note the access arrangements at both addresses, including anything you already know about parking or entry. If the move spans more than one day, say so when you enquire. Questions to raise include availability across your full dates, whether a crew van is an option if helpers are coming along, and what to do if timings shift at short notice.
Coordinating helpers
How do you keep everyone on the same page? Ask each helper which days and hours they can commit to, and write the answers down so you can match the van hire dates to real availability rather than hopeful guesses. Note who has a key to the old and new properties, who is happy to take charge of small valuables, and who will be the contact for the removal-day phone calls. Share the access arrangements you have recorded so nobody arrives unsure where to go. When you contact the team, mention how many people will be travelling in the van, since that may point towards a crew van. If someone drops out, adjust the list and check whether the arrangements still work.
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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.