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.
Fitting the van to your route
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.
Details Worth Recording for a House Move
When a van hire is for moving boxed belongings, the first step is to gather the facts a hire team will ask for. Write down your planned hire dates and whether you might need the van for an extra day if packing runs behind schedule. Count the boxes room by room and note anything unusual, such as a wardrobe, a sofa or a bicycle, including approximate dimensions for the largest pieces. Record the addresses involved, including any storage facility, and note the access arrangements at each end, such as parking restrictions or lift availability, which you can confirm with the building contacts. If someone at the destination needs to receive items, keep their phone number to hand. Any queries about the van itself or the booking terms can then be raised when you request a quote.
Building Realistic Time Into Your Moving Plan
Packing and loading almost always takes longer than first estimated, so it is worth sketching a rough timeline before you finalise hire dates. Consider how many people will be helping on the day, and whether any of them can only attend for part of it. Think about when each room will be packed, and whether certain items, such as tools you still need or documents for the new address, should be set aside separately. If your move involves a collection from a shop or a seller, note the opening hours and any collection reference they have given you. Questions about how long loading might take depend on your own circumstances rather than the hire itself, but sharing your estimated schedule with the team allows them to confirm whether the dates you have chosen remain workable.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.