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.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
The first choice to make is whether you intend to move everything in a single journey or spread it across a few. Write down the full list of items either way, then mark those that must travel together and those that could wait a day. If you lean towards one trip, note the combined quantity of boxes and the dimensions of the largest furniture, since the team will want these figures when discussing options. If several shorter runs seem more realistic, record what each run would contain and the dates you have in mind. Either way, keep the access arrangements for both addresses on paper. Presenting both options when you ask for a quote lets the team suggest which vehicle could suit your approach, subject to availability.
Setting Aside Packing Time
Once the hire dates are pencilled in, work backwards from them. Note how many evenings or days you have before the van arrives and what you realistically expect to have boxed by each point. List the rooms still to sort, along with an estimate of boxes per room, and flag any furniture that needs dismantling so its dimensions can be recorded once taken apart. Write down who is helping on the day and their arrival times. If storage is part of the plan, add the unit's opening hours and your reference number to the same sheet. When you contact the team, you can ask how the hire period could be arranged if packing overruns, and note any questions about matching the job to the right van alongside your dates.
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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.