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.
Collecting a purchase from a seller
If you have bought a large item from a private seller, a few questions asked before collection day save a lot of hassle. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions and weight, and whether it comes apart into smaller pieces, since that affects which van size makes sense. Confirm the collection address, the time window that suits them, and what help they can offer at their end, if any. It is also worth checking whether the item is in the house, a garage or a garden, and whether there are steps or narrow passages on the way out. Mention all of this when you enquire so the team can discuss the right vehicle for the load. Agreeing these points with the seller in advance means the collection visit goes smoothly and the van you arrive in suits the job.
Organising a household move
A household move is far easier to plan on paper than to improvise on the day. Start by listing the rooms in your home and roughly what will travel from each, then note the largest and most awkward items separately. This list is what the hire team needs in order to suggest a suitable van and, if relevant, discuss whether one trip or two makes more sense for your dates. Decide what stays behind, what goes to storage and what is being donated, since separating these early keeps the load simple. If friends are helping, give them the times and addresses well in advance and tell them what you expect them to carry. A clear inventory, shared with everyone involved, turns a stressful day into a straightforward one.
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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.