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.
Moving Boxed Belongings
What should go on your list before anything else? Each box. Number them if it helps, and jot down the contents in broad terms along with a note of which room they came from. Count the total, note whether any are unusually heavy or awkwardly shaped, and record the approximate size of the largest ones. Decide the hire dates and whether you need the van for a single day or longer, then write down the address you are moving from and the address you are heading to, including any access arrangements at each. If someone will be waiting at the far end, add their name and number. Presenting this information together lets the team discuss whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van matches your move, and it keeps the enquiry focused on facts rather than guesswork.
Measuring Bulky Items
Large pieces need numbers attached. For each bulky item, whether a sofa, wardrobe, mattress, chest of drawers or dining table, write down the length, width and height, and note whether it separates into parts, such as legs that unscrew or a bed frame that splits in two. Record the dimensions of those parts individually if it comes apart. If an item must pass through a narrow doorway or stairwell at either address, ask the person at that property to confirm the clearance, since they know their building best. Include this list when you contact the team about the hire dates, and ask which van types suit your inventory. Clear measurements and honest descriptions of each piece give the team what they need to respond properly to your request.
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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.