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 Furniture Collection With a Seller
Suppose you have agreed to buy a sofa from a private seller: what information should you gather before the hire begins? Start by asking the seller for exact dimensions of each item, including whether anything separates into smaller pieces, and confirm the collection address along with any access notes such as narrow lanes, gates or parking limits. Agree a realistic collection window with them rather than a single fixed hour, and exchange mobile numbers in case either side is delayed. If the seller is passing items on through a third party, note that person's contact details too. Recording the number of items, their approximate sizes and any fragile pieces gives you a clear list to mention when requesting a van, and it lets you ask the hire team which vehicle option suits a load of that shape and size.
Organising a Household Move
If the hire is for a house move, a different set of preparations comes into play. Walk through each room and build a written inventory of what will travel, grouping items by size so you can see at a glance whether the load leans towards a few bulky pieces or many smaller boxes. Confirm the access arrangements at both the old and new addresses, including any time restrictions on parking or entry that the relevant contacts can clarify. Decide your hire dates with some flexibility in mind, in case completion timings shift. It is also worth listing who will be present on the day and their phone numbers, so everyone knows when to arrive. When you contact the team, you can then ask which of the available van types best matches your inventory and whether a crew van would make sense if helpers are travelling along.
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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.