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.
Measuring Entrances and Items in Advance
Will your largest item actually pass through the openings it needs to? That is the first question to settle. Measure each key piece of furniture or equipment, writing down its height, width and depth, then measure the doorways, corridors, gates or stairwells at both ends of the journey. If a sofa or wardrobe is being collected, ask the seller or recipient for their own measurements rather than estimating. Note any item that can be dismantled, along with the tools that would be needed. When you contact the team about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, share these figures and the access arrangements, and ask which option they would match to the job.
Arranging a Collection With a Seller
When collecting something you have bought from a private seller or a shop, gather the practical details in advance. Confirm the collection address, a named contact and their phone number, plus the window during which they will be available. Ask whether the item sits on the ground floor or upstairs, whether it comes apart, and whether anyone on their side expects to be present at the agreed time. Write down the item's dimensions and roughly how many boxes or pieces are involved, then give the hire dates and access details to the team when you ask about a van. It is also worth asking what happens if the seller changes the time and you need to adjust the booking.
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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.