Inspect both approaches
Walk from the nearest legal stopping place to each door. Note steps, gates, communal corridors, lifts and tight stair turns. Send photos of the street and entrance if the van cannot stop directly outside.
For village properties, mention narrow lanes, low branches, weak verges, width restrictions and limited turning space. Agree the nearest safe loading point in advance if direct access is uncertain.
Plan central parking
Check bay restrictions, loading times and any pedestrian controls around the High Street and town centre. Move your own car before the booked arrival and ask neighbours about shared access.
If a permit or bay suspension is needed, follow the current South Gloucestershire Council process early. A long carry is repeated for every item, so include the real distance in the quote request.
Choose the crew from access and weight
One person may suit a small, boxed ground-floor move. Stairs, long carries, sofas, wardrobes and heavy appliances often make two people safer and faster.
Mention pianos, safes, stone, large glass and American-style fridge freezers before booking. Measure oversized furniture against the narrowest doorway and stair turn, and send photos if dismantling may be needed.
Send a complete moving brief
List furniture, appliances and approximate boxes, including garages, lofts, sheds and storage units. Seal boxes so they stack and label each one by destination room.
Send both postcodes, floor levels, parking details and access photos for a realistic estimate. Call 01454 540121 to discuss a Thornbury or South Gloucestershire move.