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.
Recording Which Items Go Where
When a job spreads across two days and three destinations, the paperwork you keep can matter as much as the van itself. Suppose you are moving some things to a new flat, some to a relative's garage and the rest to a storage unit. Write each address at the top of a page and list the items destined for it underneath, noting dimensions for anything bulky like wardrobes or sofas. Add the name and number of the person receiving goods at each stop, plus any hours they have given. This record helps when several people share the job, since everyone can see which items are spoken for. Before booking, you might ask which van options the team would suggest for the plan and how the days could be split if needed.
Collecting a Purchase from a Private Seller
If you have agreed to collect a dining table from a seller an hour away, a few notes keep the day simple. Confirm the collection address, the earliest and latest times the seller will wait, and a phone number in case of delays. Measure the item if you can, or ask the seller for its length, width and height, including whether the legs come off, and write these figures down before you choose a van. Decide who travels with you and whether anyone at the seller's end will assist. Think about where the item is going afterwards and who will receive it there. When asking for a quote, mention the date, the item's dimensions and the access at both ends, and ask which vans from the range would suit the job.
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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.