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.
Will your items fit through the entrance?
How do you know whether your items will clear the entrance at each end of the journey? The answer is to measure before you book rather than guess. Note the width, height and depth of every significant item, from sofas to wardrobes, and record them alongside the dimensions of the doorways, corridors and stairways at both properties. If an item can be separated into parts, note the size of each part and whether the fixings are removable. Where a collection point has a loading bay, restricted hours or a narrow approach, write down what the seller or site manager tells you about access. Presenting these measurements and access notes when you enquire allows the team to suggest which van suits the job.
Planning a collection with a seller
Buying furniture second-hand often means collecting it from someone else's home, so a little planning with the seller pays off. Start by confirming the collection address and asking the seller for a contact number you can use on the day. Agree a time window rather than a single moment, and note any restrictions they mention, such as parking limits or available hours. Record the item's measurements as the seller describes them, and ask whether it comes apart, since this affects what you tell the team about the load. It is also worth asking whether the seller can help at all with moving the item to the door, and noting their answer. Share the agreed details, the item dimensions and the hire dates when you request a quote.
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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.