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.
Notes to Make Before Loading Day
Start by writing down everything that needs to travel in the van, room by room or job by job, rather than relying on memory on the day itself. Alongside each item, record its approximate length, width and height, and note anything the seller or manufacturer states comes apart, such as a bed frame or a shelving unit. Note the hire dates you have in mind, whether you need the van for a single morning or several days, and the address where it should be delivered or collected. If a household move is involved, list the furniture, boxes and appliances separately, and mark which pieces belong to which room at the far end. These notes give the team a clear picture when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Planning a Collection from a Seller
Before agreeing a pickup time with anyone selling furniture or equipment, it is worth asking them a few things in writing. Confirm the exact address, the times someone will be there to hand over the item, and a phone number for the day in case plans shift. Ask for measurements of the piece, including whether legs, doors or handles protrude, and whether it has been dismantled or will need to come apart. Note the seller's preferred payment method and whether they can hold the item until your hire date. With those answers recorded, you can tell the team what you need to carry, the access arrangements and the hire dates, and they can help match the job to the right van.
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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.