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.
Arranging a Collection With a Seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture or equipment from a private seller, it helps to sort out the details before the hire date arrives. Ask the seller which days and time windows suit them, and note a phone number you can ring if anything changes on the day. Confirm the full address, including any unit or door number, and ask whether there is somewhere to pull up while you load. Record a description of the items, their condition and whether the seller will help move them to the door. You might also ask whether they have kept the original packaging or fixings. Once you have these notes, pass the dates, the item list and any access details to the team when requesting a quote, and mention any timing constraints you are working around.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Should your load include wardrobes, sofas, white goods or flat-pack furniture, a tape measure and a written list are worth more than a rough guess. Measure each item's height, width and depth at its largest point, including handles, feet and any packaging, and jot down whether anything can be dismantled or has awkward angles. Note how many of each item there are and whether any come as multi-part sets. If you plan to move boxes as well, an approximate count and typical box size will help build a fuller picture. Share these measurements and quantities when you contact the team, together with your hire dates and any questions about vehicle options. You can also ask what happens if your list changes before collection day, so nothing is left undecided.
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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.