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.
Collecting a purchase from a seller
If you have bought furniture, equipment or building materials from a private seller, the collection deserves as much planning as the purchase itself. Message the seller to agree a collection time and ask them to describe the items, including whether anything comes apart or needs protecting on the journey. Find out where the goods are kept, since items in a garage or upper flat change how the loading will go. Pass these details to the team with your dates and they can advise which van body style suits the load. Ask the seller to have everything gathered and ready before you arrive, which keeps the hire period short. A quick photo of the items sent in advance can also help the team judge the space needed.
Checking entrances and item sizes
Measurements solve most collection problems before they happen. Take the length, width and height of the largest item, and note any narrow doorways, tight stairwells or low ceilings at the collection address. Ask the seller about access for vehicles too, such as whether a van can pull up close or whether there is a distance to carry things. Share all of this with the team so they can match the load to a suitable van and raise any points worth thinking through. If an item will not fit through an opening as a single piece, ask the seller whether it separates into sections. Describing your requirements clearly at this stage usually means the day runs without surprises.
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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.