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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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 conversation with them shapes the whole outing. Ask early whether they can help at a specific time on your chosen date, and note their name, address and phone number in one place. Confirm the item's dimensions while you are at it, along with whether it comes apart into smaller pieces or moves as one unit. Agree how you will update each other if timings shift on the day, perhaps by text. You might also ask whether the item is on a ground floor or upstairs, since access details are useful when discussing options. Pass all of this, plus your hire dates, to the team when requesting a quote, and raise any questions about vehicle choice before booking.
Writing Down the Unloading Order
Before the hire begins, it can help to write out the delivery stops for the far end of the journey. Make a simple list of each address, along with a contact name and phone number for whoever is receiving items there, and note which stops have time windows you need to respect. If a destination has questions about parking, gates or access, the person at that address is the one to ask, so it is worth phoning them beforehand and recording what they say. Keep the list with you on the day rather than trusting memory. Sharing the stops and timings with the hire team also helps them confirm the right van and booking length, and you can raise any remaining questions about the vehicle before you confirm.
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Things to check 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.