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.
Agreeing Collection Details with a Seller
Suppose you have bought an item privately and need to collect it with a hired van. Before anything else, contact the seller and pin down the practical details. Confirm the collection address, the earliest and latest times they will accept a pick-up, and a phone number that works on the day. Ask whether the item can be brought outside or whether you will need to arrange things at the door, and note any helpers the seller is willing to provide, if that has been discussed. Record the item's dimensions and weight estimate so you can pass them on when discussing van sizes. If the seller has a preferred day, write it down alongside your own availability. When you request a quote, include these collection arrangements, the hire dates and a description of what you are carrying, and ask any questions that remain open.
Recording Boxed Items for a Van Move
A move built around boxes is far easier to plan on paper than in your head. Count the boxes room by room, note their approximate sizes, and flag any that contain fragile contents or unusual shapes such as lampshades or rolled posters. Measure the bulkiest pieces, including any bags, holdalls or loose bedding, and jot down the longest dimension of each so the list is useful when talking through van options. If some boxes are destined for a storage unit and others for a new address, separate the two lists and add contact details for whoever receives each batch. Estimate how many trips you expect to make, if that is part of your thinking. When asking for a quote, send the inventory with your dates and access notes, and raise any questions about vehicle choices for the load described.
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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.