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.
Arranging a Collection with a Seller
If you have bought something second-hand and need to collect it, a little preparation before requesting a van makes the conversation far more productive. Start by asking the seller for the item's dimensions, whether it comes apart, and how many pieces there are in total. Note down their preferred collection window, a phone number for the day, and any details about access such as which entrance to use. With that information recorded, you can describe the job accurately when contacting the team and ask which vehicle option would suit, whether a Luton or a small van better matches the dimensions, and what hire dates are available. If the seller mentions helpers on their side, note that too. Questions worth asking include whether the van can be collected the evening before and what happens if the collection window moves, so every detail is settled in advance.
Recording What Goes Where
Say you are moving a mix of boxes, furniture and appliances in one trip and want to keep track of it all. Rather than relying on memory, write an inventory that lists each item with its rough size, which room it belongs to, and whether it is fragile. This record is useful when describing the job, deciding between vehicle options and confirming nothing is left behind at either end. It also helps to note where each item is heading, such as a storage unit, a new address or a friend's garage, along with a contact name and number for each destination. When asking for a quote, you might question how the size of your list affects the vehicle suggested, whether a crew van is needed if helpers are travelling, and what access details are worth confirming with the people receiving the goods.
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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.