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.
Sorting Out a Collection With a Seller
If you have agreed to collect furniture or equipment from a private seller, a few written details will keep the arrangements clear. Start by confirming the collection date and a time window the seller can commit to, then record their phone number and the exact address, including any gate codes or numbered unit. Ask the seller for the dimensions of each item, whether anything comes apart, and roughly how many pieces there are in total. Pass those measurements and the access notes, such as parking arrangements or narrow lanes, to the hire team when you ask for a quote. It is also worth asking the seller whether they can hold the items if your timing shifts. Any questions about access at the seller's property are for the seller to answer, not the hire team.
Getting a Household Move on Paper
For a house move, the most useful preparation is a room-by-room inventory. List what you plan to take, note the largest items first in terms of size, and mark anything fragile or awkward in shape. Count the boxes you expect and estimate their dimensions if you can, since this record helps the team suggest whether a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van suits the job where available. Record the hire dates, the addresses at both ends, and contact numbers for anyone meeting you, including a named person at the destination. Ask the team which vehicle groups they can offer on those dates and what they need from you to confirm. Keeping the inventory to hand means you can update it as plans change.
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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.