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 Furniture Collection With a Seller
If you have agreed to buy a sofa or wardrobe privately, gathering the right information beforehand can shape the whole hire. Ask the seller for the item's length, width and height, whether it comes apart, and how many boxes or loose pieces go with it. Note the collection address, the days and times the seller is available, and a phone number for the person who will be present. Check whether the item is in a garage, ground floor or upstairs flat, and write this down alongside the access arrangements at your own end. When you request a quote, pass on the full dimensions and piece count so the team can discuss which of their van options might suit, subject to availability. Keep the seller's details handy in case the schedule moves.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
When a job could be done in one larger van or spread across several trips in a smaller one, it is worth listing everything before deciding. Write down each item or box, its rough size, and where it is going, then group the list by destination if there is more than one. Note your preferred hire dates and whether the whole job must finish within a single day or can continue over a weekend. Record who will meet you at each end and their contact numbers, especially for storage runs or business deliveries with set opening times. Once the list is complete, share it with the team along with the access arrangements, and ask which vehicle option they would suggest for the dates you have in mind. The answer may leave the choice with you.
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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.