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.
Planning a collection with a seller
Suppose you have agreed to collect a sofa, a set of drawers or a fridge-freezer from a private seller. Before asking for a quote, confirm with that seller the exact collection date, the earliest and latest times they will be available and whether a second person will be there to pass over keys or paperwork. Record the seller's phone number in case the timing shifts on the day. Ask them for the approximate dimensions of each item and whether anything comes apart, since these figures are useful to share when you ask for a recommendation. Note whether the seller's address has steps, a narrow gate or parking restrictions, as these are details the team may ask about. The open question is which vehicle size matches the measurements you have gathered, which the team can help resolve.
Checking entrance and item dimensions
Measurements are worth recording before you enquire, both for the items and for the entrances they must pass through. For each piece of furniture or equipment, note the height, width and depth, and then measure the doorways, hallway corners and lift openings at both ends of the journey if you can. Write these figures alongside your list of items so nothing relies on memory. If an item is awkwardly shaped, such as a corner sofa or a rolled mattress, note its longest dimension as well. Where you cannot measure a destination entrance in advance, note the name and number of a contact there who can confirm the details for you. The question that remains open is whether your recorded dimensions point to one van size or another, and the team can talk this through when you request a quote.
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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.