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.
Arranging a collection with the seller
If you are collecting furniture or equipment bought from a private seller, make contact before the hire day to agree the practical details. Ask them to describe the item's size and any parts that detach, and confirm the address, the time you will arrive and who will be there to help at their end. Find out where the van can stand while you load, since a narrow lane or shared driveway changes how the visit runs. Agree in advance what happens if the item turns out different from the description, so you are not making decisions on the doorstep. Sharing the item's rough dimensions with the team helps them match it to a suitable van.
Packing boxes so unloading is simple
Think about the far end of the journey while you are still packing at the near one. Label every box with its contents and the room it belongs to, and keep related items together so nothing gets separated between homes or into storage. Pack a clearly marked box of essentials, such as the kettle, chargers and basic toiletries, so it is easy to find on arrival. If some things are going to storage and some to a house, mark those boxes differently and keep a simple list of which is which. Describe this split to the team when you enquire, along with your dates, and ask the contact at each destination about access, parking and who will be there to receive the load, so each stop can be planned in advance.
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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.