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.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Book
The first decision to make is which tape measure you trust, because every figure you record shapes the van you request. Measure each large item at its longest, widest and tallest points, including any protruding handles, feet or packaging, and note whether legs, doors or shelves can be removed. Write the measurements next to the item name, and add a note of anything awkward such as a mirror or a rolled mattress. If an item will travel diagonally or on its side with the seller's agreement, say so in your notes. Send the full list with your hire dates when you ask for a quote, and ask the team to match it against a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
Planning a Furniture Collection With a Seller
Before you commit to a hire date, message the seller and pin down the practical details. Confirm the collection address, a realistic time window, and a direct phone number for the day itself. Ask whether the item is on the ground floor or upstairs, whether it has been dismantled, and whether the seller expects collection from a garage, a porch or inside the house. Write the answers alongside your measurements so everything sits in one place. If the seller can only manage a specific evening or weekend, record that constraint before you choose your dates. Pass the whole note to the team with your quote request, and raise any remaining questions about van choice, access arrangements or the length of hire you are considering.
Explore other van hire areas
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.