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.
Planning a Household Move Step by Step
Where do you begin with a house move? Sketch the sequence before you contact anyone: which rooms you will pack first, which items travel in the van and which are sold, donated or left behind. Measure the awkward pieces, noting the height of wardrobes, the length of sofas and whether any bed frames dismantle, then keep the measurements with your enquiry. Record the hire dates for each stage, including a possible second run if the first does not cover everything. Write down the access arrangements at both ends, such as parking restrictions or narrow lanes, as described to you. Questions to raise include which vehicle the team would suggest for your list and whether the dates you want are workable.
Allowing Enough Time for Packing
How long does packing realistically take? Rather than leaving it to the final evening, map your belongings room by room and estimate how many boxes, bags and loose items each one produces. Note the dimensions of anything that will not fit a standard box, like mirrors, lampshades or garden tools, and decide whether it needs wrapping or a strap of its own. Set the hire dates to match your packing schedule, building in a buffer day if you think the sorting may overrun. Confirm who will be present at the property on collection and delivery, with a phone number for each. You could ask the team how much flexibility exists around extending the hire if your timeline shifts.
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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.