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.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
Say you have bought a wardrobe or a set of drawers from a private seller; a few questions sent before the hire date can prevent guesswork. Request the item's height, width and depth, ask whether it separates into sections, and confirm the collection address along with any notes about lanes, gates or parking. Settle on a time window rather than an exact hour, and keep the seller's phone number to hand in case either side is delayed. It also helps to ask whether the item is upstairs at the property and whether anyone there can assist at the door. Sharing these notes with the team, together with the access arrangements and dates, lets them advise on a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Organising a Household Move
If the van is for a house move, an inventory organised room by room turns a vague job into a clear one. List the large pieces first, such as beds, sofas and white goods, with approximate dimensions, then estimate the boxes and bags per room so quantities are recorded rather than guessed. Mark any items destined for storage rather than the new address, and note fragile pieces separately. For each address involved, write down the postcode, a contact number and the access arrangements, including whether permits or time limits apply at either end. Decide whether the move fits into one hire period or spans several dates. The team can then match the inventory to a suitable van type and confirm arrangements before the booking goes ahead.
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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.