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.
Checking doorways and item sizes
Which measurement matters more, the item or the opening it must pass through? Both are worth recording before you enquire. Measure the height, width and depth of the largest pieces you plan to move, such as wardrobes, mattresses or dining tables, and note whether legs, doors or shelves can be removed. Then check the openings involved, including the doorways, hallway turns and stair landings at each end, and jot down the narrowest points. If a lift is involved, note its internal dimensions too. These figures are for your own planning and for the destination contact to confirm access on their side. When you contact the team, share what you are carrying, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and they will help match the job to a suitable van from the range where available.
Organising a household move
How do you turn a houseful of belongings into a clear plan? Start room by room, writing down what will move and what will stay behind. Group similar items together, such as boxes of kitchenware, bedroom furniture and garden tools, and count each category so your list stays concrete. Note any items with unusual dimensions, plus anything fragile that needs flagging early. Decide your preferred hire dates, including a possible spare day if the move runs long, and record the access arrangements at both properties, such as parking or gate positions. Once your inventory and dates are drafted, pass the details to the team when requesting a quote, and raise any remaining questions then, such as whether a crew van suits the number of people helping on the day.
Explore other van hire areas
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.