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.
Arranging a Collection With the Seller
Suppose you have bought a sofa from a private seller and need to collect it before the weekend. Your first job is to gather the details that both the seller and the hire team will ask for. Confirm the collection address, the earliest time the seller can accept pickup, and any hours they definitely cannot manage. Ask for a contact number you can ring on the day, and note whether the item is in a ground-floor room, a first-floor flat or a garage, since the seller knows their own property. If the seller has set a deadline, such as collection within three days of payment, write that down too so it feeds into the dates you propose. All of this can be passed on when you request a quote, along with the item itself and the hire period you have in mind.
Leaving Room for Packing and Loading
How much of the day will packing actually take? If belongings are still loose around the house when you book a van, it is easy to underestimate the hours between starting and driving off. Consider working backwards from your collection or drop-off times and noting when each stage needs to begin. You might set aside an evening for boxes and tape, a morning for dismantling furniture, and a buffer in case something takes longer than expected. If friends are helping, agree their arrival times in advance so the schedule holds. When you speak to the hire team, mention how long you expect the whole job to run, and ask whether your proposed dates and timings leave any questions still open on their side.
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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.