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.
Listing a House Move Box by Box
Begin with a simple written inventory of everything you plan to move. Count the boxes, note any bags or loose items, and record the shape of anything awkward such as a rolled rug, a bicycle or a mirror. Where an item is boxed, a quick note of its approximate size helps when you later discuss which van suits the job. Add the dates you have in mind, the address you are moving from and the one you are heading to, plus a contact name and number at each end if someone will be there to meet you. When you ask for a quote, you can share the full list and ask which vehicle group the team would suggest, whether a Transit or Luton is worth considering, and how the access arrangements you have described affect the booking.
Working Out a Sensible Unloading Order
Before the hire begins, it helps to sketch the order in which items will come off the van at each stop. Write a sequence on paper: what needs to come out first at the new address, what can wait, and which pieces belong in particular rooms. If some belongings are going to more than one place, note the destination for each group of items and a contact number for whoever is receiving them. Think about the timings too, including when keys can be collected and when anyone helping will arrive. You can then ask the team about the right hire length for the sequence you have planned, whether a crew van would be useful if helpers are travelling with you, and any questions you still have about the dates or access arrangements before you confirm.
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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.