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.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture or equipment from a private seller, gather the key details before your hire dates are fixed. Ask the seller for the earliest and latest times they can be available, a phone number to reach on the day, and whether anyone at the address can help confirm parking or access arrangements. Find out which floor the item is on and whether it comes apart, since that affects what you record on your job list. Note the full address and any gate codes or entry instructions. With these facts written down, you can share complete access arrangements with the team when asking about a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van, and you will know which questions about the collection still need answering.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
Before choosing a van, take a few minutes to record the dimensions of everything you plan to move. Measure each large item's height, width and depth, and note whether it can be dismantled, folded flat or separated into parts. A wardrobe, a dining table and a rolled mattress each present a different shape, so write the figures beside each entry on your list rather than relying on memory. Count the smaller boxes and bags as well, since these add up. Once your measurements and quantities are noted, you can pass them to the team along with your hire dates, and they can discuss which vehicle might match the job. Any item whose size you are unsure about is worth measuring again before you ask for a quote.
Explore other van hire areas
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.