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.
Measuring Doorways and Large Items
Will that sofa actually fit through the door? Before requesting a quote, measure the widest and tallest points of each large item, including any protruding arms, legs or handles, and write the figures down. Then note the dimensions of the doorways, corridors and stairwells at both ends of the move, plus any lifts involved. Record whether furniture can be dismantled and, if so, which parts come apart, since that changes how the load is described. Photographs of awkward pieces can be useful to keep alongside the list. If someone else manages the destination, such as a storage facility, ask them directly about their access hours and entrance sizes. What the team needs from you is the item list, the measurements and the dates, so the vehicle match rests on real numbers rather than guesses.
One Trip or Several: What to Record
If you are deciding whether to move everything in a single outing or spread it over two, start by counting the items on your list and grouping them by size. Note the total number of boxes, bags and large pieces, then estimate how many would need to travel in each run if the job were split. Record the dates you could manage for each option, since a two-day plan uses different hire dates from a one-day plan, and the team prices by the dates given. If helpers are involved in a crew van scenario, note how many people need seats alongside the load. Questions about access, parking or unloading spots at either address belong with the contacts there. When asking for a quote, you can present both options, the single-trip list and the split plan, and ask which vehicle each would require.
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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.