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 agreed to buy furniture or equipment from a private seller, start by confirming the collection window in writing before you book anything. Note the seller's phone number, the exact address and any reference number for the item. Ask whether the goods will be waiting in a garage, a hallway or a ground-floor room, and whether anyone on their side will be available at the agreed time. Record the dimensions of each piece, including any parts that detach, plus a rough count of boxes and bags. If the seller can only offer a specific hour, add that to your notes so the hire period can be sized around it. Passing these details to the team when you enquire helps them match the job to the right van type.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
Should your move or collection involve more than a few items, consider sketching a rough timeline that starts well before the van arrives. You might note which rooms need to be dealt with first, how many boxes you expect to fill and whether any furniture will be dismantled beforehand. Write down the tools you may need and who is supplying them. If items are going into storage, keep a separate list of what goes where so nothing is overlooked on the day. Where an evening or weekend slot suits you better, record that preference too. Sharing the expected duration with the team when you ask for a quote allows the hire dates to be set with the packing time in mind.
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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.