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.
Writing Down What Goes in Each Box
Begin with a written list of every boxed item you plan to move, noting the room it belongs to and a short description of the contents. Record the approximate size of the largest boxes and any awkward pieces, such as a wardrobe or a rolled rug, together with their dimensions, because those figures help the team judge which van group to suggest. Add a column for fragile items so nothing gets overlooked when you describe the load. Decide whether boxes will go to one address or several, and note any recipient contact names and phone numbers for each drop-off. When you request a quote, you can ask whether your list suits the vehicle you have in mind, how many trips it might involve and whether anything on your inventory should be handled differently.
Allowing Enough Time for the Whole Day
Think through the calendar before booking rather than only the hire date itself. Note when you can start packing boxes, how long you expect that stage to take, and the window in which the van needs to be on the road. Record the hours when each address will accept a delivery, including any time limits at a storage facility or a recipient who is only free in the evening. If the move spans two days, write down the overnight arrangements for the van and the boxes. Questions worth asking include how the hire period is counted, whether an extra day can be added if the schedule slips, and what the handback arrangements are at the end. A short written timeline keeps every part of the plan visible.
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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.