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.
Measuring bulky items before you enquire
One of the first decisions worth making is exactly what will travel in the van, and that starts with a tape measure rather than a vehicle choice. Walk around the items you plan to move and note the length, width and height of each piece, including any protruding parts such as table legs, headboards or shelving units that cannot be removed. Record whether items come apart, since a wardrobe that breaks down into panels may sit differently on your list than one that stays whole. Photographs of the largest pieces can be useful to keep alongside your notes. When you contact the team for a quote, share these measurements and ask which van options they would suggest, noting any questions you still have about access at either end or the dates you have in mind.
Planning a collection with a seller
When a collection from a private seller or a shop is part of the plan, a little preparation can clarify the whole arrangement. Confirm the collection address and ask the seller for their preferred time window, keeping your own hire dates flexible until that window is settled. Request the dimensions of the item, plus a contact number for the person who will hand it over on the day. Note whether the item is already dismantled, packed or wrapped, and keep a note of any questions you still have about access at either end. Write down the points you want to raise with the team, such as which van options suit the recorded measurements and whether the hire period covers both the collection and the return leg. Keeping these details together makes your enquiry straightforward to answer.
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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.