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.
Coordinating Helpers for the Day
Who is going to be there on the day? If friends, family or colleagues are helping, make a list of names and phone numbers so you can confirm attendance a day or two beforehand. Record what time each person can start and finish, since helpers with limited windows may shape the order of your tasks. Ask whether anyone has useful extras such as blankets or a trolley, and note who is bringing what. Agree a group chat or a single point of contact so last-minute changes reach everyone. If a helper might drop out, think about which tasks could wait or be rescheduled. Sharing the hire dates, access arrangements and what you need to carry with your helpers early also means they can flag conflicts before you confirm the booking.
Moving Boxed Belongings
What goes into each box, and how many are there? Before the hire, count your boxes and jot down roughly what each contains, which room it came from and which room it is heading to. Measuring awkward cartons and noting totals by size helps you describe the load accurately when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van. Write the contents and destination room on two sides of each box so nothing needs reopening to identify. Keep a separate list of anything fragile or important, such as documents or electronics. If items are going to more than one address, note the recipient's name and contact number for each drop-off. These records make it easier to answer the team's questions about your load and access arrangements.
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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.