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 Items and Entrances in Advance
Which measurements should you gather before asking for a van? Begin with the largest items you intend to move, such as a wardrobe, sofa or dining table, and record the height, width and depth of each one, noting whether legs, doors or handles can be removed. Then turn to the entrances involved: the doorways, hallways, stairwells and lifts at both the pickup point and the destination, where a tape measure will give you reliable figures. Ask the property contact about any restrictions, such as a narrow lane or a lift with a size limit, since they know their site best. Keeping a written list of these dimensions means the team can discuss whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits the job when you request a quote.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If a private purchase needs collecting, a short exchange with the seller before the hire date clears up most unknowns. Confirm the full address and a time window that suits you both, and ask whether someone will be present to hand over the item or whether it needs to be collected from a shared entrance. Request measurements and photographs of the piece, and check whether it separates into parts or arrives flat-packed. Find out whether the seller can store it briefly if your plans slip, and take a contact number in case of delays. Write all of this down alongside your hire dates so nothing depends on memory. When you enquire, the recorded details help the team match the load to an available van type.
Explore other van hire areas
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.