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.
Keeping a Load Inventory
A written inventory is the starting point for most van hire enquiries. List every item you plan to move, with a quantity beside each, and note anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. Where furniture is involved, record its approximate dimensions and whether it comes apart. Keep this list with the hire dates and the access arrangements at each address, since the team will ask for all three when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. If items belong to different people, note whose they are and a contact number for each. Open questions might include whether your inventory suggests a different van size from the one you had in mind, and what the team needs confirmed before quoting.
Arranging a Collection with a Seller
Collecting a purchase from a private seller or shop brings its own checklist. Before the hire date, confirm the seller's address, phone number and the hours they are available, and write these alongside the hire dates. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions and weight, and whether it is already packaged or will need wrapping. If the seller can assist at handover, note who to contact on the day in case timings change. Record what access is like at the collection address, such as restricted parking or a shared driveway, since the team will ask about access arrangements. Questions for the team might include which van category suits the item's measurements and what happens if the collection slips to another day. These notes keep the arrangement in your hands.
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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.