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.
Measuring bulky items
Before you settle on a van, measure the largest items you intend to move and keep those figures with you when you enquire. Note the height, width and depth of each piece, and remember that wardrobes, sofas and mattresses often have awkward proportions that make them harder to place than their footprint suggests. If an item comes apart, check whether the sections separate, as this can change what will fit. Compare your measurements with the space you expect the load to occupy rather than estimating by eye. Where something is particularly long or tall, say so explicitly, since that single dimension may rule out certain vehicles. Passing accurate figures to the team helps them match a van to the job from the start.
Planning a collection with a seller
Buying furniture from a private seller needs a bit of coordination before the day arrives. Contact the seller to agree a collection time and ask them to describe access at their property, including anything that might affect where the van can pull up. Ask whether the item is on the ground floor or above, and whether any doors or stairwells are narrow. Confirm the exact dimensions of the piece if they were not in the listing, since advertised sizes are not always precise. On the day, keep the seller's phone number to hand in case of delays or difficulty finding the address. Sharing these details with the team when you book means the vehicle arranged matches the reality of the collection.
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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.