Small vans are London’s quiet workhorses: nimble in traffic, easy to park, and surprisingly capable. But how much can a small van actually carry—in weight and in volume—without risking fines, damage, or a failed delivery? This guide breaks it down in plain English with real-world ranges, quick calculators, fit-guides, and packing tips you can use today.


What counts as a “small van” in London? 🚐

In everyday courier terms, small vans are compact city vans designed for narrow streets and short hops. Think of them as the step below a “medium van” (like a short-wheelbase Transit-type) and above a car boot.

Typical small-van attributes

  • Payload (weight you can load): ~ 550–800 kg

  • Load volume: ~ 2.5–3.6 m³

  • Load bay (approx.): L 1.5–1.8 m × W 1.2–1.5 m × H 1.1–1.3 m

  • Doors: twin rear doors + 1 side sliding door (often)

  • Seats: 2–3 in cab

These are practical working ranges. Actual figures differ by model, trim, engine, and options (roof height, lining, bulkhead, etc.). If capacity is critical, tell your courier what you’re shipping so they match the right vehicle.


Weight vs Volume: why both matter ⚖️📦

Two things limit what you can carry:

  1. Payload (kg): the legal maximum extra weight the van can carry.

  2. Load volume (m³): the 3D space inside the cargo area.

You can hit the limit on either one first:

  • Heavy but compact items (e.g., gym plates) hit the payload limit first.

  • Light but bulky items (e.g., duvets, signage) hit the volume limit first.

Key definitions (simple)

  • Kerb weight: van’s own weight, fluids included, no load.

  • GVW (gross vehicle weight): max legal weight of van + load + people + fuel.

  • Payload: GVW – kerb weight (the bit you’re allowed to add).

  • Axle limits: each axle also has a max; bad weight distribution can overload an axle even if total payload seems fine.


Real-world payload ranges for small vans (guide) 🧮

  • Conservative working payload: 550–650 kg

  • Upper working payload (select trims): 700–800 kg

  • Two people in cab + tools? Subtract ~ 120–180 kg from the headline payload.

Rule of thumb: If your total cargo (plus people, plus add-ons like racking) will push beyond 600–700 kg, you’re safer with a medium van.


How much space is inside? (volume & dimensions) 📏

  • Typical load volume: 2.5–3.6 m³

  • Common internal lengths: 1.5–1.8 m (some models up to ~2.0 m with load-through hatch)

  • Width: ~ 1.2–1.5 m (between wheel arches often ~1.1–1.2 m)

  • Height: ~ 1.1–1.3 m

Quick volume check

Volume (m³) = L × W × H (in metres).
Example: 1.7 m × 1.25 m × 1.2 m ≈ 2.55 m³.

Packing translation: 1 m³ usually fits about 8–12 medium moving boxes (depending on box size and how tightly you pack). So 3 m³ ≈ 24–36 medium boxes—if they’re well stacked.


What actually fits in a small van? (fit guide) 📦✅

Great fits

  • Moving boxes: ~ 24–36 medium boxes (well stacked)

  • Flat-packed furniture: bedside tables, compact desks, chairs, small bookcases

  • Home appliances (select): most microwaves, compact fridges, under-counter washers (check height/width)

  • Retail/e-com: cartons, returns, POS materials, folded stands

  • Event kit: banners, light frames, folded rails, promo packs

Borderline / check dimensions

  • Standard UK pallets (120×100 cm): Often too wide between arches; sometimes one pallet fits if loaded carefully and van spec allows—confirm first

  • Sofas & wardrobes: Small 2-seaters might squeeze in diagonally; tall wardrobes usually don’t

  • Mattresses: Single often OK; double/king usually no

Awkward items tip: If length >1.8 m or any side >1.2–1.3 m, a medium van is likely the better call.


The 60-Second Capacity Calculator ⏱️

  1. Weigh your items (or estimate):

    • Small appliance: 20–40 kg

    • Medium box (books): 15–22 kg

    • Medium box (clothes/linens): 6–12 kg

  2. Add people + extras (driver + you + tools): 120–180 kg

  3. Payload check: Aim to keep total load ≤ 600–700 kg.

  4. Space check: Count boxes × 0.08–0.12 m³ each → match against ~3 m³.

If you’re close to the limits, go one size up. It’s safer, faster, and often cheaper than doing two runs.


Weight distribution & securing loads (safety must-dos) 🧷

  • Heaviest near the bulkhead: keeps weight forward, protecting axles and braking.

  • Low and centered: reduces roll and protects fragile items.

  • Even left/right: avoid overloading one side.

  • Strap everything: use ratchet straps to stop forward shift under braking.

  • Protect edges: corner guards/blankets prevent crush damage.

  • No loose items: brake tests throw unstrapped gear forward—dangerous and costly.

Courier insight: A well-strapped, balanced 600 kg load feels safer than a loose 350 kg one. Strapping saves claims and time.


Packaging that maximises capacity 🎁

  • Uniform boxes stack tighter than mixed shapes.

  • Double-wall cartons for anything heavy or fragile.

  • Fill voids (paper/air pillows) so stacks don’t slump.

  • Disassemble legs/handles to shorten longest side.

  • Wrap soft with soft (linens/pillows) to pad gaps around rigid items.

  • Label sides (not tops only) so boxes stay readable when stacked.


When a small van is perfect (and when it isn’t) 🎯

Choose a small van if:

  • Inner-London drop with tight streets/parking

  • Up to ~600 kg total load

  • Boxes, POS kits, small appliances, compact flat-packs

  • Single address or short multi-drop within the city

Upgrade to medium van if:

  • Any dimension is >1.8–2.0 m or >1.2–1.3 m wide/tall

  • Load >700 kg including people and extras

  • You need to carry bulky sofas/wardrobes, large mattresses, or multiple appliances

  • You want one trip instead of risking two


Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them) ⚠️

  • Guessing weight: Books are heavier than they look. Overestimate if unsure.

  • Forgetting people/tools: They count toward payload.

  • Axle overload: All heavy boxes at the back is a no-go. Keep weight forward.

  • Unsealed liquids: Always upright and bag-protected; leaks ruin loads.

  • No protection for fragile edges: Use blankets/foam—cheap insurance.


Quick answers (FAQ) ❓

Q: Can a small van carry a washing machine?
A: Usually yes (under-counter models), if height/width fit and total weight is within payload. Strap it upright.

Q: Will a small van take a double mattress?
A: Often no (too big). A medium van is safer.

Q: Do you take pallets?
A: Some jobs yes, but small vans are tight on width. Tell us pallet size/weight first.

Q: Is one heavy item OK if the total is under payload?
A: It depends on axle distribution and securing. We’ll advise on the right van.


Sample load scenarios (real-world feel) 🧪

  • E-com restock: 28 medium cartons of apparel (~8 kg each) → ~224 kg, ~2.8 m³Small van: ideal.

  • Micro-move: 1 compact desk (disassembled), 1 office chair, 15 book boxes (~18 kg each) → ~270 kg, ~2.2 m³Small van: OK.

  • Appliance swap: Under-counter fridge (~35 kg) + 12 mixed boxes (~10–15 kg each) → ~155–215 kg, ~1.8 m³Small van: easy.

  • Bulky wardrobe (assembled): 2.05 m tall → Likely too tall/longMedium van needed.


Booking checklist (copy-paste) ✅

  • 📦 What: item list + rough dimensions (L×W×H)

  • ⚖️ How heavy: best guess or item weights

  • 🕘 When: pickup window + any building restrictions

  • 🚪 Access: lifts, stairs, loading bay, parking notes

  • 🧰 Extras: blankets, straps, trolley required?

  • 📍 Route: multi-drop? fragile/keep-upright items?


The Lucky Van advantage in London

At Lucky Van, we match your job to the right van size—small for speed and savings, medium/large when dimensions or payload demand it. You’ll get:

  • Capacity guidance upfront (no surprises at the kerb)

  • Professional strapping & protection for safe transit

  • Clear pricing with the vehicle that fits (not the one that struggles)

  • Same-day/next-day options across London

Not sure if your load fits a small van? Tell us the items and we’ll confirm in minutes—or recommend a medium van if it saves you time, cost, and stress.


TL;DR (one-glance summary) 🧭

  • Small-van payload: ~550–800 kg (plan for ≤600–700 kg incl. people/tools)

  • Volume: ~2.5–3.6 m³ (≈ 24–36 medium boxes when well packed)

  • Great for: boxes, small appliances, compact flat-packs, POS/event kits

  • Watch out for: double mattresses, tall wardrobes, pallet width

  • If in doubt: step up to a medium van—one smooth trip beats two risky ones


Ready to book the right van size? Contact Lucky Van and get a precise fit check for your load—no guesswork, just a smooth, safe delivery.


📲 Stay Connected

Follow us for real delivery stories, customer shoutouts, and special offers:


👉 Book with Lucky Van today and give your customers the delivery experience they deserve.

 


When booking a courier or van delivery service in London, most people rush straight to the price and time estimate. Few take the time to read the Terms & Conditions (T&Cs). Yet those fine-print rules matter more than many realise. They define what happens if your delivery is delayed, what charges apply if you cancel, and how much compensation you can expect if something goes wrong.

At Lucky Van, we’ve seen how misunderstandings can be avoided simply by making the rules transparent. That’s why we’ve prepared this guide: a plain-English explanation of the most important parts of our Terms & Conditions of Carriage. If you’re a business shipping pallets daily, or a Londoner sending furniture across town, here’s what you should know before you book.


Why Understanding T&Cs Matters

Delivery seems simple: you book a van, the driver arrives, the goods are collected, and then they’re delivered. But logistics is rarely that straightforward. Roads get congested, addresses turn out to be incomplete, customers run late, goods aren’t packed properly, or traffic restrictions like ULEZ add costs.

The role of T&Cs is to provide clarity and fairness:

  • They protect the customer from unexpected surprises.

  • They protect the company from risks outside its control.

  • They set expectations so both sides know their responsibilities.

Ignoring them can lead to frustration, extra costs, or even disputes. Reading them (or at least this guide) gives you peace of mind.


The Key Rules, Explained in Plain English

1. Waiting Time (Detention and Demurrage)

Every booking includes 30 minutes of free waiting at both collection and delivery. After that, time is charged per minute. For small vans this may be 40p/minute, while for larger vehicles it may be 80p/minute.

Why? Because vehicles stuck waiting can’t earn. If you’re late or the site isn’t ready, the van is effectively on hire but idle. The solution: be ready when your courier arrives, and you’ll never pay extra.


2. Cancellation and Aborted Attendance

Sometimes plans change — that’s normal. But last-minute cancellations affect drivers’ schedules and costs.

  • Cancel with more than 24 hours’ notice: no problem.

  • Cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice: up to 50% of the booking fee may apply.

  • Cancel after the driver has already arrived: 50–80% of the agreed fee is chargeable.

  • Driver cannot access the site due to wrong address, no one available, or blocked entrance: the full fee plus any re-delivery/storage costs may apply.

Tip: Always double-check the details in your booking confirmation email — address, access instructions, and contact phone number.


3. Packaging and Labelling

This one is crucial. The courier is responsible for safe driving and handling, but the customer is responsible for proper packaging. If goods are fragile, they need bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, or pallets. Labels must be clear and accurate.

If items are poorly packed or unlabelled, they travel at your risk. That’s standard across the industry, and Lucky Van is no exception. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t send glassware without wrapping it first.


4. Prohibited and Restricted Items

We’re flexible with most deliveries, but there are limits:

  • Cash, jewellery, and high-value items — not accepted without prior agreement.

  • Dangerous goods (chemicals, explosives, etc.) — only with full ADR compliance.

  • Fragile or irreplaceable items — accepted, but excluded from compensation unless declared.

If you book such items without declaring them, they may be refused or travel at your risk.


5. Liability and Insurance

One of the most important sections. By default, carrier liability is limited:

  • UK domestic movements: up to £1,300 per tonne (£1.30/kg) of gross weight, subject to a minimum of £10.

  • International (CMR): 8.33 SDR/kg (roughly £8–£9/kg).

That means if your 100 kg sofa worth £5,000 is damaged, the standard liability is £130, not the full replacement value.

Solution: buy enhanced insurance. Lucky Van can arrange extra cover if you notify us in writing at least 7 days before transit. It’s a small surcharge compared to the potential loss.


6. Surcharges and Pricing

London logistics comes with extra costs that sometimes apply on top of the base fee:

  • Fuel surcharges (especially when prices spike).

  • Congestion Charge and ULEZ fees.

  • Remote area or toll surcharges.

  • Peak or emergency demand charges.

We update surcharge levels periodically to reflect real costs. When you book, we base quotes on the information you provide — weight, size, addresses, access. If the actual load is very different, the price may be recalculated.


7. Dangerous Goods (ADR Rules)

If you’re shipping paint, aerosols, chemicals, or batteries, you must disclose them. The law requires proper classification, packing, and paperwork under ADR. Without it, drivers may refuse collection.

Lucky Van is ADR-aware, but compliance is the sender’s responsibility.


8. Proof of Delivery (POD)

We use electronic PODs: timestamp, geolocation, and either a digital signature or delivery photo. This protects you and us — it’s clear when and where delivery happened.

If delivery is impossible (wrong address, no access, recipient absent), we may store, return, or dispose of goods, and reasonable costs apply.


9. Claims and Time Limits

If something does go wrong, claims must be made quickly:

  • Visible damage or loss: notify us in writing within 7 days.

  • Non-delivery: notify within 21 days after expected delivery.

Proof of value is required, and we may need to inspect goods.


10. Customer Responsibilities

The customer agrees to:

  • Provide safe access, legal parking, and loading conditions.

  • Ensure staff or equipment are ready for loading/unloading.

  • Give correct and complete information (dimensions, addresses, phone numbers).

  • Cover costs if incorrect info leads to failed delivery.

Think of this as teamwork: when the customer and courier both do their part, deliveries run smoothly.


What This Means for You

Here’s how to make the most of courier services under these rules:

  • Be prepared: Have goods packed, labelled, and ready to load when the van arrives.

  • Check details: Make sure addresses, access instructions, and contacts are correct.

  • Book realistically: Allow time for traffic, waiting, and possible delays.

  • Protect valuable goods: Request enhanced insurance if items are high-value.

  • Communicate: If anything changes, let the courier know as early as possible.

Doing these five things avoids nearly every extra cost or dispute.


Lucky Van’s Promise

We don’t hide behind fine print. Our Terms & Conditions are public, and our drivers are trained to explain key points if needed. Our goal is simple: transparent, reliable, professional courier services across London and the UK.

By knowing the rules upfront, you can book with confidence, whether you need a same-day furniture delivery, urgent business shipment, or regular e-commerce courier service.


Conclusion

Courier services aren’t just about moving items from A to B — they’re about trust, clarity, and professionalism. By understanding Lucky Van’s Terms & Conditions of Carriage, you know exactly what to expect: from waiting time and cancellation rules to liability and insurance options.

So next time you’re planning a delivery in London, don’t just check the price. Check the terms, prepare your goods properly, and choose a courier that values transparency.

With Lucky Van, you’ll always know where you stand — and where your goods are headed.


📞 Ready for stress-free London deliveries?
Contact Lucky Van today for fast, reliable courier services tailored to your needs.


📲 Stay Connected

Follow us for real delivery stories, customer shoutouts, and special offers:


👉 Book with Lucky Van today and give your customers the delivery experience they deserve.

 


Goods-in-Transit insurance protects your items while they’re being moved from A to B. Whether it’s a single fragile sculpture, a multi-drop e-commerce run, or a same-day office relocation, GIT is the safety net that covers physical loss or damage during loading, transit, temporary storage, and unloading. For businesses, it’s not just “nice to have”—it’s a practical risk-control tool that keeps operations steady and customers confident.

Note: the points below are general guidance. Always check the policy schedule, endorsements and exclusions of your chosen provider.

What GIT Usually Covers (and Where It Stops)

  • Physical loss or damage: theft, accidental damage, collision impact, overturning, fire, and similar transit perils.

  • While in transit: often from the moment items are picked up and loaded until they’re delivered and signed for.

  • Extensions/endorsements (if added): temporary overnight storage in the van, loading/unloading, cross-decking between vehicles, or short-term warehousing en-route.

GIT does not typically cover:

  • Consequential loss or delays (missed deadlines, loss of profits).

  • Inherent vice/poor packaging (items that fail due to their own condition or inadequate packing).

  • Excluded goods (e.g., cash, precious metals, fine art, or hazardous items) unless expressly agreed.

  • Improper security (e.g., vehicle left unattended with doors unlocked, parking in non-secure areas against policy rules).

How Limits and Valuation Actually Work

Before you book a courier, verify how compensation is calculated:

  • Per vehicle vs. per consignment vs. per item: Policies may set different caps (e.g., a total per vehicle limit with a lower sub-limit per item). If you’re shipping a single high-value item, a low per-item cap can be a nasty surprise.

  • Basis of settlement: Indemnity (market value) vs. new-for-old (replacement) where available. Some policies reduce payouts for wear and tear.

  • Pairs & sets clause: If one chair from a set of six is damaged, the payout may be limited to the value of that single chair—not the entire set—unless specifically covered.

  • Excess: The deductible you agree to pay on each claim. A higher excess may reduce premium but increases your out-of-pocket risk.

  • Declared value accuracy: Under-declaring can limit payout and breach terms; over-declaring won’t help if the policy’s maximum is lower than your item value.

Red Flags and Exclusions You Should Actively Check

  1. “Theft-attractive” goods: Tech, designer fashion, alcohol, tobacco, jewellery often face sub-limits or exclusions. Confirm treatment in writing.

  2. Unattended vehicle rules: Many policies require deadlocks, immobilisers, alarms, and secure overnight parking. A theft during a quick coffee stop can be excluded if doors/windows weren’t secured.

  3. Packaging & loading: If the sender is responsible for packing, inadequate packaging may void cover. Agree who packs and how (and document it).

  4. Temperature-controlled items: If you’re moving chilled/frozen goods, confirm cover for temperature deviation and equipment failure.

  5. Fragile/unique goods: Artwork, antiques, glass, stone, musical instruments often need specific wording or a “white-glove” endorsement.

  6. International shipments: Cross-border moves may shift the legal framework and liability. Confirm that the courier’s GIT and your own insurance still apply door-to-door.

Courier Terms vs. Insurance: Don’t Confuse the Two

Courier terms and conditions often include limited liability (e.g., a cap per kilo or per consignment) unless you buy enhanced cover or declare a higher value ahead of time. Insurance is what can extend protection beyond those base limits—but only if arranged properly. If your item’s value exceeds either the courier’s standard liability or the insurer’s default limit, ask for:

  • A higher single-item/consignment limit, or

  • A one-off “special declaration” for that specific job, confirmed on the booking.

Proof of Delivery (POD), ePOD and Claims

Solid documentation speeds up claims and reduces disputes:

  • Pre-pickup condition: Photos/video, serial numbers, a packing list, and any pre-existing marks noted in writing.

  • During transit: Real-time tracking, route logs, and time-stamped status updates help establish a clean chain of custody.

  • At delivery: ePOD with name, signature, timestamp, geo-tag, and photos of items in situ. If damage is suspected, mark the POD as “received with damage” and photograph immediately.

  • Claims window: Policies set strict notification deadlines (e.g., notify within 24–72 hours). Miss the window—risk losing the claim.

Who Packs, Who Lifts, Who’s Liable

Agree responsibilities up front:

  • Packing: Courier-packed vs. client-packed. If client-packed, follow a written packing guide (double-walled boxes, edge protectors, corner guards, furniture blankets, straps).

  • Handling: For heavy/bulky items, book two-man delivery. Single-driver handling of oversized goods increases breakage risk and may breach safe-lifting rules.

  • Access & restrictions: Stairs, lifts, loading bays and time windows. If the team must maneuver via tight stairwells, tell them in advance—policies don’t cover “attempting the impossible”.

Special Cases: Furniture, Art, Tech and Cold Chain

  • Furniture/white-glove: Ask about protective materials (mattress bags, sofa protectors, crating), on-site assembly, and post-delivery photos. Confirm that cosmetic damage is within scope.

  • Art & antiques: Custom crating, shock/tilt indicators, climate notes. Many insurers require professional packing or a specialist courier team.

  • Electronics/IT: Anti-static packaging, original boxes if possible, and serial-number logs. Exclusions may apply to data loss—insurance covers the device, not the files.

  • Chilled/frozen: Temperature logs, pre-cooled vehicles, door-open time discipline. Confirm coverage for spoilage due to equipment failure vs. driver error.

Subcontractors and Handoffs

If your courier sometimes uses trusted partners for capacity peaks or remote areas:

  • Ensure subcontractors are held to the same GIT standards.

  • Request a single point of liability: the courier you book remains responsible to you, even if a partner physically completes the job.

  • Keep a paper trail: job ID, who had custody when, and corresponding ePOD.

The “Pre-Book” Checklist (Use This Before You Click “Confirm”)

  1. Item details and value: What exactly is moving? Single item or multiple? Exact declared value?

  2. Coverage limit: Per item / per consignment / per vehicle. Is the limit above your item’s value?

  3. Exclusions: Any special categories (fragile, art, high-theft, temperature-controlled)? Are they included?

  4. Packaging plan: Who packs? What materials? Any crating needed?

  5. Handling plan: One-man vs. two-man team; stairs/lifts; awkward access; time windows.

  6. Security: Vehicle security requirements, overnight parking rules, unattended stops.

  7. POD/ePOD: Will you get time-stamped signatures and photos? What does the report include?

  8. Claims window & excess: How fast must you notify? What’s the deductible?

  9. Higher-value declaration: If needed, arrange in advance and get written confirmation.

  10. Subcontractors: If handoffs are possible, confirm same insurance standards and single point of liability.

How Lucky Van Handles GIT in Practice

  • Clear limits, upfront: We confirm per-item and per-job limits in writing and offer enhanced cover where appropriate.

  • ePOD by default: Time-stamped signatures and photos at pickup and delivery; photo-proof for fragile and high-value items.

  • Two-man option: For furniture, art and heavy appliances, minimizing risk from the first lift to final placement.

  • Pro-grade packing: Blankets, straps, corner guards, shrink, and (when requested) custom crating or retail-collection re-boxing.

  • Temperature-aware runs: For chilled goods, we brief drivers on door-open discipline and can provide temperature logs when required.

  • Claims support: If the unexpected happens, we help gather evidence fast so the insurer can make a decision without delays.


📞 Ready for stress-free London deliveries?
Contact Lucky Van today for fast, reliable courier services tailored to your needs.


📲 Stay Connected

Follow us for real delivery stories, customer shoutouts, and special offers:


👉 Book with Lucky Van today and give your customers the delivery experience they deserve.

 


Packing is 80% of a smooth move. Even with the best van and driver, poor packing leads to dents, scratches and stress. This guide gives you proven, London‑ready methods to protect your belongings—whether you’re booking a man and van for a studio move or transporting a few premium items across town.

Why smart packing matters

  • Less risk of damage (and disputes with landlords or buyers)
  • Faster loading/unloading → lower time on site
  • Better use of van space → fewer trips
  • Easier claim evidence with clear labelling and Photo POD

Materials checklist (buy/prepare in advance)

  • Double‑wall moving boxes (S/M/L), book boxes
  • Wardrobe boxes with rail, mattress bags (single/double/king)
  • Bubble wrap (large & small bubbles), foam sheets, paper
  • Corner protectors (cardboard/foam) for frames & furniture edges
  • Moving blankets (3–8), stretch wrap, fragile tape, ‘This Side Up’ labels
  • Ratchet straps (at least 2), bungee cords, rope
  • Tool kit: hex keys, screwdriver set, tape measure
  • Zip bags for bolts/screws (tape to the item), marker pens

Tip: In rainy London, add shrink/stretch wrap for sofas and cartons, and keep 1–2 spare blankets dry in plastic before loading.

Room‑by‑room protection tactics

Kitchen & glassware

  • Plate bundle: stack vertically in a small box with foam sheets between, fill voids with paper; label FRAGILE – PLATES – VERTICAL.
  • Glasses: wrap stems individually, use dividers, top‑load only.
  • Knives: blade guard or heavy cardboard, then wrap; pack in a clearly labelled SHARP box.

Electronics & IT

  • Original boxes? Use them. Otherwise: screen corners with foam, 2× bubble layers, then a snug box. Keep cables in a labelled bag.
  • Back up laptops/drives before moving. Transport high‑value items in the cab where possible.

Artwork & mirrors

  • X‑tape the glass, corner protectors, wrap in bubble + blanket. Load on edge, never flat.

Furniture & mattresses

  • Disassemble where practical (legs, shelves, headboards). Zip‑bag all fixings and tape to the piece.
  • Protect corners/handles, then blanket + stretch wrap. Use mattress bags; keep mattresses upright.

Wardrobes & clothing

  • Wardrobe boxes for suits & dresses. For folded clothes, compress in medium boxes—avoid over‑packing.

Appliances (fridge/washing machine)

  • 24 hrs before: unplug/defrost, drain hoses, tape doors, protect corners. Keep upright and secure near the van bulkhead.

Plants & liquids

  • Short hops only; avoid packing wet soil. Use crates, keep upright, protect leaves from crush.
  • Don’t load loose liquids; seal in tubs or move separately.

Loading order & securing in the van

  1. Heavy, boxy items first (appliances, book boxes) against the bulkhead.
  2. Sofas/mattresses next, upright, blanket‑wrapped.
  3. Medium boxes form layers; fragile/top‑load cartons last.
  4. Strap each section as you go—don’t wait until the end.
  5. Eliminate empty spaces with soft items/blankets to prevent shift.

Pro move: Build a “T” with straps—one horizontal across the stack, one vertical to the floor rings—to stop forward and side movement.

Weather‑proofing for London

  • Keep an entry mat and plastic sheeting at both properties.
  • Stage items by the door under cover; load during lighter showers first.
  • Wipe van floor before placing fabric items.

What not to load

  • Fuel, loose paint, solvents, gas canisters; perishable/open foods on longer trips; live pets (use dedicated pet transport).

Common mistakes and quick fixes

  • Overfilled large boxes → use more medium boxes; target ≤20 kg each.
  • No labels → room + content + “FRAGILE/TOP” on at least two sides.
  • Unstrapped stacks → strap every 2–3 rows.
  • Flat‑loaded frames → always on edge with corner guards.

Printable moving‑day checklist

When to call a man & van

  • Studio/1‑bed mini‑moves across London
  • Single high‑value item (artwork, piano bench, designer sofa)
  • Marketplace pickups (Facebook/TikTok/Depop) with timed slots

Why book Lucky Van
ULEZ‑compliant vans, professional straps/blankets on board, careful loading, flexible time slots and Photo POD on delivery. Same‑day and next‑day across Greater London.

CTA: Ready to move safely? Book your man and van today → Get a Quote


📞 Ready for stress-free London deliveries?
Contact Lucky Van today for fast, reliable courier services tailored to your needs.


📲 Stay Connected

Follow us for real delivery stories, customer shoutouts, and special offers:


👉 Book with Lucky Van today and give your customers the delivery experience they deserve.

stamchat call icon
stamchat mail icon
stamchat chat icon
stamchat close icon