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.
Working Out the Unloading Order
If your delivery ends at a property with limited space, planning ahead can still make the day straightforward. Before booking, list everything being transported and mark which pieces belong to which room or recipient. Where items are bound for different addresses, note the contact details for each so you can confirm arrival windows directly with them. Rough dimensions for the largest furniture help the team judge which vehicle size to suggest. Record any access constraints or arrival preferences the recipients mention, and keep those notes with your inventory. These notes stay with you; they simply make the quote request more precise and give you a reference point on the day itself.
Checking Entrances and Item Sizes
Before settling on a van, it is worth measuring the spaces your items must pass through. Note the width and height of doorways, corridors, stairwells and gates at both the collection point and the destination, then compare these figures against the dimensions of your largest pieces. If something looks tight, write down the measurements so you can discuss them when requesting a quote. Where a recipient is receiving goods on your behalf, ask them to confirm their own entrance sizes and any access constraints they are aware of. Recording this information in advance keeps the conversation with the hire team focused on matching the job to a suitable vehicle, rather than leaving gaps that surface on the day.
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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.