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.
How Should You Plan a Household Move?
Begin with a room-by-room list of what is coming with you, marking anything oversized such as wardrobes, sofas or appliances, and estimating the number of boxes and bags for the rest. Fix your hire dates early, ideally with a buffer day in case packing overruns, and write down the addresses at both ends along with any access details you already know, including parking arrangements or entry restrictions. If items are going into storage rather than a new home, note the storage unit reference and opening arrangements. Decide who will be present at each address and record their contact numbers. When you contact the team, ask which van sizes suit the items on your list, whether a Luton, dropside or another option matches your measurements, and whether anything about your list raises further questions worth settling before the booking is made.
Leaving Enough Time for Packing
Packing almost always takes longer than expected, so it pays to work backwards from your hire dates when building a schedule. Set aside specific days for each room, noting on paper which items will be boxed, which furniture might be dismantled and where screws and fittings will be stored. Keep a running count of boxes and a note of any unusually shaped pieces, since these details help the team discuss which vehicle options match the job. Record the recipient's details if someone is receiving furniture or boxes on your behalf, including a phone number and an agreed arrival window. Questions to raise when requesting a quote include whether your dates allow any flexibility, and whether the list you have prepared points towards a different vehicle from the one you first had in mind.
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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.