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.
Arranging a Collection With a Seller
If you have bought furniture from a private seller, the first step is agreeing exactly when you can collect it. Ask the seller for their preferred time window, a phone number reachable on the day, and the full address including any parking notes. Record the item's dimensions and, where possible, photographs, so you can describe it accurately when discussing van options. Find out whether the item comes apart and whether the seller still has the original fittings. Confirm whether anyone at the address can help you at the door, or whether you should bring someone along. Note any collection reference or receipt number if the purchase was through a shop or marketplace. When you request a quote, pass on the dates, the item details and your access notes, then ask which van sizes are available and what else the team would need to know before confirming the hire.
Leaving Time for Packing and Loading
Should the packing happen the night before or on the morning itself? That choice shapes how smoothly the day runs. If items are coming from several rooms, consider packing one room at a time and labelling each box with its contents and destination. Write down the dimensions of anything oversized, such as a wardrobe or dining table, and keep the list handy for your enquiry. Note which items are fragile and which bags or boxes contain them. If you are dismantling furniture, gather the tools and put the fittings in a marked bag. Agree start times with anyone helping and confirm the hire window covers both packing and the journey. When you ask for a quote, mention your packing timeline, the full item list and the access arrangements, then raise any remaining questions about vehicle availability or timing.
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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.