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.
Keep a written load list
Start by listing every item that needs to move, room by room or job by job, rather than relying on memory. Beside each entry, note anything that affects the vehicle choice, such as an item that dismantles, something unusually long, or a piece that cannot be tilted. Mark the fragile pieces so whoever helps you can treat them accordingly, and flag anything you plan to leave behind or sell. This list becomes the basis of your enquiry, letting the team suggest a suitable van instead of working from a rough guess. It also helps on the day, giving you a checklist to work through at both ends of the journey.
Collecting a purchase from a seller
When you are collecting furniture or equipment from a private seller, the conversation beforehand matters as much as the journey. Ask them to describe the item's dimensions, whether it comes apart, and what condition it is in, so you can judge the space it will take. Check where they are located, what parking or access is like, and whether anyone there can help with moving it to the van. Agree a collection window rather than a single time, which gives you room if the journey runs long. Share all of this with the team when you enquire, and ask anything you are unsure about before committing to a vehicle.
Explore other van hire areas
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.