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.
Checking Sizes Before You Book
Will everything actually fit through the gaps on your route? That question is worth answering with a tape measure rather than a guess. Note the height, width and depth of the bulkiest items you plan to move, and then check the doorways, corridors and stair turns they must pass along, both where the items start and where they finish. If a pick-up point has a rear entrance or a narrow gate, ask the person there to measure it and send you the figures. Record everything on one sheet so you can see at a glance which items are the tightest. When you contact the team, mention any measurement that seems close, because it gives them a clearer idea of the job and opens a conversation about which van options might work for what you have listed.
Listing Your Boxed Belongings
When a move involves mostly boxes, an organised list makes the whole process more straightforward. Count how many boxes you expect, note their approximate sizes, and mark which rooms they come from, since that detail helps at the other end as well as during the enquiry. If some boxes contain fragile items, write that beside them rather than relying on memory. Numbering each box and keeping the numbers in step with your list means you can see instantly if one has gone astray. Where bags, loose pictures or small appliances sit alongside the boxes, add them as separate lines so nothing is missed. Bring the completed list when you discuss the hire; it lets you describe the load precisely and ask which vehicle would suit the number of boxes and the sizes you have recorded.
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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.