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.
Will It Fit Through the Entrance?
The first practical question is usually whether each item will pass through the entrances involved, and the answer starts with a tape measure. Record the height, width and depth of every large piece, then ask the contact at each destination for the dimensions of the doorways, corridors, stairwells or lifts on their side. If a lift is out of service or a hallway has a tight turn, note that down too, since that side sits with the receiving party to confirm rather than the hire team. Keep both sets of figures together with your notes for the day, so they can be passed on if anyone else is helping or if plans change later.
Building a Clear Load Inventory
An inventory is simply a written record of what is travelling, and it works best when compiled methodically. Go through each room in turn and list furniture, boxes and loose items, giving quantities where several are identical, such as twelve medium boxes or four dining chairs. Mark anything that is fragile, valuable or belongs to someone else, and note which items are destined for which address if the trip involves multiple stops. Where something might be sold, donated or left behind, keep it on a separate undecided list rather than deleting it. Bring the finished inventory with you when discussing the booking in Haringey, since the team can respond to specific quantities and descriptions far more readily than to a general impression of the job.
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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.