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 a House Move into Order
What does an organised move start with? Most people find a room-by-room list is the foundation. Record every item you plan to take, paying close attention to the bulky pieces: beds, wardrobes, sofas, tables and white goods all deserve their own line. Add a running count of boxes and bin bags as they are filled, and revise the numbers in the days before the van is collected. Alongside the inventory, draft a simple timetable covering the hire dates, when you expect to have keys, and any slots booked with the storage facility or anyone receiving deliveries. If helpers are involved, note who is coming and when. Presenting this information to the hire team, together with your access arrangements, helps them recommend the best van option for the job.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
Have you confirmed the details with the person selling the item? A collection arranged in haste often leaves gaps, so it pays to gather the facts before the van is booked. Ask for the exact address, a named contact and a phone number, and agree a specific date and time window rather than an open-ended arrangement. Find out which floor the item is on and whether there are steps; those questions belong to the seller rather than to the hire team. Note the item's dimensions and weight if the seller can provide them, plus whether it comes apart. Recording all of this means you can share a clear summary with the hire team when asking them to match the job to a suitable van.
Explore other van hire areas
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.