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.
Fitting the van to your route
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 are collecting furniture or goods from a private seller, a short conversation beforehand can settle most details. Ask what items are included, whether anything comes apart, and whether the seller has a preferred time window for pickup. Note the exact address, a contact name and a phone number, plus any access notes they mention, such as which entrance to use. If the goods include pieces with unusual dimensions, record the measurements while you have the seller on the phone rather than guessing later. You might also ask whether the seller can hold the items for the agreed date and whether they expect any payment method in particular. Writing all of this down means you can pass accurate information on when you request a quote, and you will have the seller's details to hand if the collection time needs rearranging.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
Before hiring, it is worth measuring both the goods and the spaces they must pass through. List each item with its length, width and height, and note whether doors, stairwells or corridors at either end could restrict movement. If a sofa or wardrobe cannot be dismantled, that measurement matters more than a rough estimate, so take a tape measure and record the figures. At the destination, ask the contact there about entrance widths, lift availability and any restrictions they know of, since those questions belong to the person managing the property. Compare your list of dimensions with the van sizes you are considering and raise any doubtful items when you enquire. Where a measurement seems borderline, note it as a question rather than an assumption, and the team can advise which options might suit.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.