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.
Agreeing Details with a Seller First
If you are collecting furniture you have bought from a private seller, it pays to settle the practical details before you book a van. Ask the seller for their address, a contact number and a preferred collection window, and note anything they have said about access, such as a shared driveway or a rear entrance. Record the dimensions of each piece they are selling and confirm whether items come apart, since a wardrobe described as large leaves more questions than one you have measured yourself. Keep the seller's number handy in case plans shift, and pass their details and your inventory to the team when you request a quote, so the vehicle options can be discussed against what you actually intend to collect.
Deciding Between One Trip or Several
Before you finalise a hire, consider whether your load points towards a single journey or a series of shorter runs. Write down every item, bag and box, then estimate whether the total looks like one van load or something that would need to be split. If a friend or family member is receiving goods at the far end, record their contact details and the address, and ask them directly about access, parking or a suitable time to arrive. Some collections, such as a storage run with a fixed gate closing time, may suit a tighter schedule than others. Share your preferred dates with the team, ask which vehicles are offered for them, and raise any question about hire length so the arrangement matches the plan you have in mind.
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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.