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Choosing a moving van is easier when you describe the load, rather than just the size of your home. Two one-bedroom flats can contain very different amounts of furniture. For a move in London, the vehicle also needs to work with the collection and delivery access.
This guide explains what information to send before booking a man and van, how to compare vehicle options and which details are worth checking in writing.
Start with a room-by-room inventory
Make one list covering everything that will travel in the van. Separate furniture from packed boxes, and include items kept outside your main rooms. A list such as “bedroom furniture” leaves too much open to interpretation.
Instead, describe the individual pieces: one double mattress, one dismantled bed frame, a chest of drawers, a desk and an estimated number of boxes. Mark anything you intend to leave behind. Update the list if you buy, sell or add furniture before moving day.
Measure the items that could decide the van size
Start with your longest, widest and tallest belongings. Record the measurements of a sofa, wardrobe, dining table or shelving unit in its travelling form. If it will remain assembled, measure it assembled; if dismantling is planned, explain which parts come off.
Send photographs that show the whole item, rather than only a close-up. Mention anything that cannot have other belongings stacked on top. A fragile lampshade or an awkwardly shaped chair can need more usable space than its measurements initially suggest.
Compare the vehicle options, not just their names
Small and medium panel vans can be worth discussing for a limited collection of belongings or an individual furniture delivery. Longer panel vans provide another option for mixed loads. A Luton has a separate box-shaped body and is often considered for bulkier furniture moves.
These descriptions are starting points, not promises that a particular household will fit. “Large van” is not an exact specification. Ask your mover to confirm the proposed vehicle against your inventory, including the loading-door opening and internal dimensions where these matter.
If a tail lift is needed, confirm that the booked vehicle has one. A tail lift helps with the loading stage; it does not resolve narrow stairs, an unsuitable doorway or the need for enough people to handle an item.
Give the mover an honest picture of the load
Alongside dimensions, flag unusually heavy belongings such as a substantial book collection, tools or solid furniture. Do not assume that visible empty space means more heavy items can be added. Ask the mover to assess both the space and the weight involved for the actual vehicle.
A useful example is a move with a few large but lightweight pieces compared with one containing many compact boxes of books. The number of boxes alone does not describe either job properly.
Check London access before confirming the booking
Send photographs or a clear description of the approach to each property. Mention a height barrier, basement entrance, narrow driveway, loading area or long walk between the stopping point and the front door. If the building has a loading bay or goods lift, ask its management about access and booking arrangements.
For street parking, check the relevant council or road authority’s current instructions for the exact location. Avoid assuming that an empty space outside the property is available for the whole move. Share any arrangements with your mover before the day.
Agree how the move will be completed
Ask whether the quote assumes one journey, several trips or more than one vehicle. A second trip may be practical for a nearby move, but it changes the time required and needs agreeing in advance. For a longer journey, read our long-distance moving guide.
Also confirm the number of helpers and whether dismantling is included. Vehicle capacity and lifting help are separate decisions. If you cannot assist with carrying, say so when requesting the quote.
A short message to send with your enquiry
- Collection and delivery postcodes, preferred date and any time restrictions.
- A complete furniture list and estimated packed-box count.
- Measurements and photographs of bulky or awkward items.
- Floors, stairs, lifts, carrying distances and vehicle-access details.
- The help you need, including any agreed dismantling or tail-lift requirement.
For advice on getting boxes ready, see our packing and moving house guide.
Ready to discuss the right vehicle for your move? Contact JP Man & Van or call 07925405549 with your inventory and access details so we can discuss a suitable arrangement.