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.
Putting a Household Move in Order
What should you sort out first when a house move is on the horizon? Before anything else, make an inventory of the rooms and the items in them. Go from space to space, noting furniture, boxes and any awkward pieces, along with approximate dimensions for the larger ones. Count the boxes as you pack and keep the tally updated, since a list written a fortnight before the move often drifts from reality. Note your moving dates, including any gap between leaving one home and collecting keys at the next, and record the contact details for both ends, such as the estate agent or the person holding the keys. When you ask for a quote, share the inventory, the dates and your access questions, and ask which of the van types could suit the volume you have listed.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
A load inventory is simply a written record of what travels in the van, and it serves several purposes during a move or collection. Start one as soon as you know what is going, grouping items by room or by destination. For each entry, note the quantity, a short description and, for furniture, the approximate height, width and depth. If items are going to more than one address, add the recipient's name and phone number beside each group so nothing is mixed up on the day. Keep the list somewhere you can reach it easily, and tick items off as they are gathered. When you contact the team, you can refer to the inventory when discussing whether a small van, Transit or Luton matches your needs, and ask any questions about the hire dates and access arrangements.
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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.