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.
Measuring Entrances and Items
Have you measured everything that needs to pass through a doorway? Before requesting a quote, take a tape measure to the largest items on your list and write down each one's height, width and depth. A sofa, wardrobe or fridge freezer is easy to underestimate from memory, so record the figures while you can still check them. Where furniture will be coming out of one property and into another, note the width of hallways, door frames and any turns along the route, since these dimensions sit with the destination contact rather than the hire team. Photographs of awkward items can be useful to keep alongside your notes. Supplying these measurements when you enquire allows the team to discuss which van options might suit the job on your dates.
Keeping a Load Inventory
What exactly is going in the van? A room-by-room inventory is the simplest way to answer that question before moving day. List each item, from the double bed down to the boxes of kitchenware, and mark anything that belongs to a specific person or room. If some pieces are heading to storage and others to a new address, split your list accordingly so nothing gets muddled. Note which items are fragile and which are being disassembled, since dismantled furniture takes up a different amount of room than expected. A copy of the inventory on your phone means you can check items off as they arrive. Sharing the number of items and the general size range helps the team match the job to a suitable 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.