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.
Setting Aside Realistic Time for Packing Days
Start with the details worth writing down: the hire dates, the rooms or sites involved, and the hours you can genuinely devote to packing each day. If the hire begins on a Saturday, decide in advance which evening is for boxes, which for dismantling furniture, and which for the final sweep of cupboards. Note any items that need extra wrapping or careful handling information, and flag anything whose dimensions you are unsure about. Build a small buffer into your own schedule for jobs that overrun. When you contact the team, mention how the days are arranged and ask whether the vehicle choice still fits the plan, or whether different dates would work better with the items on your list.
Agreeing Collection Details with a Seller
Before the hire is booked, confirm the practicalities with whoever is selling the goods. Write down their name, phone number, the full collection address and any reference for the sale. Ask when they are available, whether an assistant will be present, and whether there are specific hours for collections on that street or site. Measure the items if you can, or ask the seller for measurements and photographs, and record the largest dimensions so nothing is guessed. Check whether anything needs to come apart before it travels and whether the seller has the tools or information for that. With these answers in hand, you can discuss the load with the team and settle the van choice and dates on facts rather than estimates.
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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.