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.
Keeping a Clear Load Inventory
Start by writing down everything that needs to travel in the van, as a complete inventory gives you and the team a shared picture before any vehicle is chosen. List each item, note its approximate dimensions, and flag anything unusually long, wide or tall. Count the boxes, bags and loose pieces rather than estimating, and record whether any goods need to stay dry or upright. If certain items belong to different people or destinations, mark them against the relevant recipient so nothing is mixed up on the day. Should you be unsure whether a piece of furniture will suit one van type or another, the measurements and quantities you have noted give the team something concrete to work from. Questions about which vehicle group fits your list, and how the hire dates line up with the job, can then form part of your quote request.
Arranging a Collection With a Seller
When a van is needed to collect something you have bought, such as furniture from a private seller or goods from a shop, there are several details worth confirming in advance. Agree the collection date and a time window with the seller, and ask for the full address plus any access notes, such as gates, narrow lanes or parking limits, that might affect the handover. Record the item's dimensions and weight if the seller can provide them, and keep their phone number to hand in case plans change. It is also sensible to ask whether the seller can help at either end or whether you will need to bring someone along. You can then put these notes, along with your preferred hire dates, to the team when discussing which van option suits the collection.
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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.