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.
Getting Your Helpers Organised
Who has promised to help, and can you rely on each of them? A written list of helpers answers that question quickly and highlights any gaps while there's still time to fill them. Note each person's name, the hours they can commit and a phone number for reaching them on the day. Record who will be there at the start and who arrives later, since that affects which parts of the job can happen when. If anyone is tentative, keep them marked as unconfirmed rather than counting them in, and think about a fallback if they drop out entirely. Once timings are agreed, circulate a single message to the whole group covering the schedule and the addresses involved, so nobody turns up at the wrong time or place because they saw an earlier version of the plan.
Measuring Entrances and Awkward Items
Will each piece actually pass through the spaces along its route? Answering that in advance is a matter of measurement rather than guesswork, and it's information worth having to hand when you request a quote. Note the height, width and depth of any large or unusually shaped items, then measure the doorways, corridors, stairwells and gate openings they'll need to pass through at both ends. Record each set of figures against the item it belongs to, so nothing gets mixed up later. If something looks marginal, note where the tightest point sits and which contact at the destination could answer questions about it. A written dimensions list also makes your enquiry far easier to respond to, since the team can consider specific measurements rather than working from a rough description.
Explore other van hire areas
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.