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.
Note down the details before packing
Start by writing an inventory of everything you plan to move, room by room. Record the hire dates you have in mind, including any flexibility either side, and the access arrangements at each address, such as parking restrictions or narrow entrances. Keep a running list of anything fragile or awkwardly shaped, and note the dimensions of the larger pieces so you can describe them accurately. If you are moving boxed belongings, count the boxes and estimate how many you expect by the collection day. This written summary gives the team something concrete to work from, and it flags any gaps in your own planning while there is still time to resolve them.
Coordinating a furniture collection with a seller
If you are collecting a purchase from a private seller or a shop, gather the seller's contact details early and confirm the address, the earliest and latest collection windows, and any specific requirements they have about who should attend. Ask the seller for the exact measurements of the item and, where possible, photographs showing any detachable parts. Find out whether the item will be on the ground floor or upstairs, and whether the seller can hold it until your hire date if there is a delay. Note a phone number you can reach on the day in case plans change. When you request a quote, pass on the collection address, the delivery address and the item description so the team can consider the whole job together and raise any questions before the booking is confirmed.
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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.