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 Bulky Items Before You Call
One of the first decisions worth settling is which items actually need to travel in the van. Go through the load room by room or job by job and write down each large piece, noting its height, width and depth in centimetres or inches. Include anything that does not come apart, such as a wardrobe, sofa, workbench or pallet, and record whether doors, drawers or handles add extra depth. If an item arrived flat-packed, measure the box rather than guessing at the assembled size. A written list with measurements gives the team something concrete to work from when matching the job to a van, and it flags any pieces you may want to move separately or leave behind.
Agreeing Collection Details With a Seller
If part of the trip involves collecting a purchase from a private seller or shop, a few points are worth confirming in advance. Ask the seller for the exact address, a contact number for the day and the hours the item can be collected. Find out whether the item comes as one piece or several, and request photographs or measurements if the listing is vague. Note the total hire dates you have in mind, including any flexibility, so the collection slot can be compared against them. It is also sensible to record the recipient details at the delivery end, if someone else will receive the goods. These notes help you brief the hire team and keep the plan clear.
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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.