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.
Writing Down What You Need to Carry
A useful starting point is a written list of everything the van needs to accommodate. Note each item's name, its rough length, width and height, and how many of them there are, since furniture and boxes vary more than people expect. Add anything awkward such as rolled carpet, flat-pack panels or a bicycle, and flag items that can be dismantled if you are unsure of the totals. Once the list is complete, it can be sent with the access arrangements and hire dates, letting the team match the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. If some pieces are still unknown, mark them as estimates and revise the list before the booking is confirmed.
Agreeing Collection Details With a Seller
When collecting a purchase from a private seller or shop, the details you agree in advance shape the whole hire. Confirm the collection address, the earliest and latest times on the day, and a phone number for the person handing over the goods, then keep this with your own contact information. Ask the seller for the exact number of items and their approximate dimensions, including packaging, and note whether anything comes apart. If the address has particular access arrangements, such as a shared yard or restricted entry, write those down too. All of this can be passed to the team alongside your hire dates, and any remaining questions about vehicle choice can be raised before you commit.
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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.