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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Coordinating a seller collection
Say you have bought a dining table from someone selling it second-hand. Your first step is to message them for details: the table's length, width and height, whether the legs come off, and how many boxes or chairs are included. Ask about access at their end, including which floor the item is on and whether there is room to park nearby. Agree a contact number and a collection window rather than a fixed minute. If the seller needs the item gone by a certain day, note that deadline alongside your own availability. Once you have this written down, you can approach the team with your dates and a clear description of the load, which helps them suggest whether a small van or something larger is appropriate for the job.
Measuring bulky items beforehand
Before settling on a van size, take a tape measure to every large item you plan to move. Record each piece's height, width and depth, and note anything with an awkward shape, such as a corner sofa or a wardrobe with a fixed mirror. If furniture can be dismantled, measure the largest remaining section rather than the assembled piece. Check whether any item will need to travel upright, and note doorways or stairwells at both ends that could constrain movement. Photographs of the bulkiest pieces can be useful when you enquire, and some people find a simple sketch of the room helps them remember what is going. Presenting these measurements with your hire dates lets the team discuss which vehicle group fits the load you have described.
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Things to check 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.