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 Furniture Collection with a Seller
If you have agreed to collect an item from a private seller, there are several details worth writing down before you ask for a quote. Confirm the collection date and any time window the seller prefers, since this shapes the hire period. Ask for the dimensions of the item, including its height, width and depth, and note whether it comes apart or must stay in one piece. Find out who will be present on the day and a phone number for them, in case plans shift. It also helps to ask about parking or access at the property, though the seller is the right person to answer questions about their own entrance or driveway. With this information gathered, you can raise any remaining queries with the team when discussing which van suits the job.
Listing Boxed Belongings for a Move
Should your move consist mainly of boxed items, a written inventory is a useful first step. Go through each room and count the boxes, noting roughly how many are large, medium and small, and set aside any that contain awkward or fragile pieces. Record the dimensions of the bulkiest boxes if you can, since this gives a clearer picture than a simple total. Think about the date you want to move and whether it might stretch over more than one day. If storage is part of the plan, note which items are going there and which are travelling to the new address. Decide who will be available to help on the day and keep their contact details to hand. These notes can then be shared when asking about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
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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.