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 Collection with a Seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture from a private seller, a short conversation beforehand can spare everyone confusion on the day. Ask for the exact address, the earliest and latest arrival times, and a mobile number that will actually be answered while you are on the road. Check whether someone will be there to hand the items over, or whether you are expected to collect from a porch, garage or shared building. Request approximate dimensions and photos of each piece so you can discuss the sizes with the team, and note whether anything comes apart, along with whose job that is. Writing these details alongside your hire dates means open questions can be raised when you ask for a quote.
Writing an Inventory of What You Carry
Which items are genuinely making the journey? A written inventory settles that before you set off. List each piece you intend to move, noting rough dimensions and whether it fits through standard doorways, plus any fragile or awkwardly shaped objects that deserve a mention at the outset. Where a collection involves several stops, record the sequence and note which items belong to which address so nothing gets mixed up between them. Consider whether you will need blankets, straps or padding of your own, and ask the team what is supplied if you are unsure. Sharing the inventory, the access arrangements at each end and your preferred dates gives the team what it needs to match the job to a suitable vehicle and reply to your enquiry.
Explore other van hire areas
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.