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.
Organising a Household Move
How far ahead should you start planning a house move? Earlier than most people expect, and the first task is a written inventory. Go through each room and list what is coming with you, flagging items such as beds, wardrobes and appliances that may have awkward proportions. Measure the largest pieces and record the figures, since a description alone can be misleading. Next, note your preferred dates, whether weekends or weekdays matter, and how many days of hire you anticipate needing. If friends or family are helping on the day, write down who is available when, and keep the contact details of anyone receiving items at the new address. Bringing this information to the team allows them to talk through small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van options against your actual list.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Which measurements should you take before enquiring about a van? Start with the items themselves: for each large piece, record its height, width and depth, and note any parts that detach, such as table legs or mirror frames. Then think about the spaces those items must pass through. Doorway, hallway and stair dimensions at both the old and new property are worth writing down, and any lift measurements if one is involved. If items are heading to a storage unit or a customer's premises, ask the contact there for their own entrance figures and any restrictions they apply. Keep this set of notes with your hire dates and access arrangements. When you contact the team, you can share the numbers and ask which vehicle options suit the load you have described.
Explore other van hire areas
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.