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.
Writing down your boxed belongings
Start with a simple written list of every box you plan to move. Before requesting a quote, note the number of containers, their approximate sizes and which rooms they come from, since a room-by-room tally often reveals items you would otherwise forget. Record anything unusual: a boxed bicycle, a rolled rug, a dismantled bed frame or an awkward item wrapped in blankets. Mark which boxes are fragile and which can go into storage rather than the new address. If the list grows between your first enquiry and the hire date, send an updated count so the team can reconsider whether the original van type still matches the job. A clear inventory also helps you decide what could be left behind, sold or donated before moving day arrives.
Checking entrances and item dimensions
Before settling on a van, measure the largest items you intend to carry and write the figures down. Note the height, width and depth of wardrobes, sofas, appliances and any flat-pack furniture still in its packaging, and compare them with the dimensions of doorways, corridors, stairwells and lifts at both ends of the journey. Record access details too: whether there is a loading bay, on-street space or a rear entrance, and any restrictions on when you can use them. If an item will not pass through an internal doorway in one piece, note that it may need dismantling and keep the relevant tools to hand. Passing these measurements and access notes to the team with your enquiry allows the vehicle choice to be checked against your actual load.
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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.