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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Planning a Household Move Step by Step
How do you turn a houseful of belongings into a single organised hire? It starts with a room-by-room plan. Walk through each space and note what will travel with you and what will be sold, donated or left behind. From that list, decide which items need to go in the van and which might travel separately by car. Write down the hire dates, including whether you need the van overnight or across a weekend, and record the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or entry times agreed with the destination contact. Sharing this outline with the team lets them suggest whether a small van, Transit or Luton is the closer match to the volume you have described.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
An itemised inventory is one of the most useful documents you can prepare before a move. List each bulky piece of furniture with its approximate dimensions, then count boxes by size rather than individually. Note anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or a mattress that needs protecting. If furniture will be collected from a shop or a seller, record their contact details and collection reference so the handover can be arranged without delays. Ask yourself whether the total suggests one trip or several, and put that question to the team when you request a quote, since they can talk through the van sizes available. A written list also gives you a checklist for the far end.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.