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.
One Trip or Several Shorter Runs
The first question many customers ask themselves is whether the whole load needs to travel at once. Begin by writing an inventory of the items involved, noting the quantity of boxes, bags and larger pieces, and the dimensions of anything oversized such as a sofa or a shelving unit. With that record, you can weigh up whether a single Luton on one date covers the job or whether a series of shorter runs on different dates suits the plan better. If several runs are likely, note the proposed date of each, along with the access arrangements at every address, so the team can match each leg to a suitable van where available. Questions about vehicle choice for a given list of items can accompany your quote request.
Noting What Moves First
When a move or a storage run is planned for a single day, a short written plan of the schedule can be just as useful as the item list itself. Note the addresses involved in the order you expect to visit them, and mark any time limits you already know about, such as a storage site's closing hours or a collection window agreed with a seller. If a purchase from a shop or a private seller forms part of the day, add the seller's contact number and the agreed window to the same plan. The hire dates, the access arrangements at each stop and a full description of what you are carrying can then go to the team together, giving them a clear picture when matching the job to a small van, Transit, dropside or crew van where available.
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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.