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.
Fitting the van to your route
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
Suppose you have agreed to collect a sofa or a set of drawers from a private seller. Before the hire is booked, it is worth writing down the item's dimensions, including its height when standing, and asking the seller how it will be presented on the day, such as whether doors and drawers will be removed. Note the collection address, the agreed time window and a contact number for the person handing over the goods, since sellers are not always reachable on the day itself. You might also ask whether there are steps, gates or parking limits at their end, and record the answer rather than relying on memory. Questions you could put to the hire team include which vehicle options would suit an item of those recorded measurements, and whether your dates align with availability, leaving the seller's access arrangements to confirm separately.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
If the van is needed for a set period, sketching a rough schedule before you enquire can clarify how long to book. Consider noting when you plan to finish packing boxes, when the van will be collected or delivered, and how much time you want to set aside for getting items out of the house and into the vehicle. Rather than estimating loosely, you could list the rooms you intend to empty and count the boxes or wrapped pieces in each, which gives you a figure to discuss. It may also help to record any items that will need extra handling time, such as a wardrobe that must be emptied first. Questions worth raising include whether extending the hire period is possible if your schedule runs longer, and what the cut-off times are for collection, so your plan reflects the conditions rather than assumptions.
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What to confirm on the phone
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.