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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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 the Order of Your Load
If you are moving a mix of boxes and furniture, it pays to think about the sequence before the van arrives. Rather than deciding on the day, sketch a simple written plan listing each item and roughly where it sits in the property, then note which pieces you will want first when you reach the other end. Recording this on paper gives you something to refer to if a friend is helping and the day gets busy. You could also number your boxes so the plan stays clear even when items are stacked out of sight. When you request a quote, questions worth asking include whether the vehicle you are considering has the internal length you need, and whether any of your listed items might require a different van from the one you first had in mind. That way, your notes form part of the conversation rather than a last-minute scramble.
Arranging a Collection with a Seller
When a purchase is coming from a private seller or a shop, there are several details worth confirming in advance. Agree a specific time window rather than a vague morning or afternoon, and ask the seller for a contact number in case of delays. Find out whether the item comes apart, what its measurements are, and whether it is currently upstairs, in a garage or behind a locked gate. If a friend is meeting you there, decide beforehand who will handle payment and paperwork so the handover runs without confusion. Before you finalise the hire, you might ask the team which van size suits the dimensions you have noted, and whether the dates you want align with what is available. Keeping the seller's address, item sizes and agreed timing written down makes it easier to answer those questions quickly and accurately.
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Things to check 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.