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.
If You Are Collecting from a Seller
If you have bought furniture or equipment from a private seller, a few details noted in advance can make the hire enquiry simpler. Confirm the collection address, the times the seller is available and whether anyone there can help you at the agreed hour. Ask whether the item is upstairs, in a garage or in a shed, and write down the answer along with any access notes, such as a narrow lane or a shared driveway. Agree the date firmly with the seller before you book a van, and keep a second date in reserve in case plans shift. Record the seller's phone number so you can confirm on the morning. Passing all of this to the team when you ask for a quote helps them suggest a suitable van for the job.
Listing Boxed Belongings Before Booking
A clear inventory of boxed belongings starts with counting. Note how many boxes you have, or expect to have, and sort them into rough sizes, such as small book cartons, medium boxes and large containers. If some contain fragile items, mark that on the list. Record any bags, baskets or loose items that will not fit into boxes, and estimate their dimensions where you can. Think about the dates too: when packing finishes, when the van is needed and when everything must reach its destination. If storage is part of the plan, note how long for. With this written down, contact the team and ask which van size they would recommend for the number and size of boxes you have described, along with any access details.
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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.
















