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.
Organising a Household Move
What should you sort out first when a house move is on the horizon? A written plan is usually the most useful starting point. Fix your intended hire dates, then list every item you intend to take, room by room, and mark anything that needs dismantling or careful handling, such as bed frames, shelving or a piano. Note the access arrangements at the old and new addresses, including parking possibilities and a contact number for someone at each end, since questions about gates, entries or restrictions are best answered by the destination contact. Record who will help on the day and agree each person's role in advance. When you contact the team with your load list, access details and dates, they can help match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Comparing One Trip With Several
Should you plan a single journey or spread the work across two? This question is worth thinking through before you book, because the answer shapes your dates and vehicle choice. Start by listing everything that must move and estimating how it splits between loads, noting which items are needed urgently and which can wait a few days. If you decide on more than one trip, record the dates for each and what will travel in each run, perhaps essentials first and storage items later. Consider who is available to help on each date and whether any collection, such as a furniture purchase, has a fixed deadline. Writing both options down, with their dates and item lists, lets you compare them side by side and discuss the possibilities with the team when arranging your hire.
Explore other van hire areas
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.