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.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
If you have bought something from a private seller, it is worth gathering a few details before you ask for a quote. Note the item's dimensions, whether it comes apart, and the seller's address and preferred collection window. Ask the seller for a contact number you can share, since the hire may depend on timing that only they can confirm. Record whether the item is already in the hallway or still upstairs, purely as information for your own planning, and check whether parking or access needs discussing with anyone at the address. Once you have measurements and dates, you can ask which van sizes are available, how long the hire period should be, and whether a crew van would suit if someone is coming along to help.
Organising a Household Move
Suppose you are moving home rather than collecting a single item. Start by walking through each room and writing a room-by-room list of what will travel, including approximate sizes for the largest pieces and the number of boxes you expect. Note the dates you want the van, the addresses involved, and any access arrangements at each end, such as restricted entry times that the relevant contacts can confirm. If friends are helping, record who is available on which day, since that may shape whether one longer hire or two shorter ones fits your plans. Questions worth asking include whether a Luton or dropside is available for your dates and what the collection process involves.
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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.