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.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
If you have bought something from a private seller, the days before collection are a good moment to gather the practical details. Ask the seller for the earliest and latest times they can hold the item, whether anyone will be there to meet you and a contact number that works on the day. Note the item's dimensions and approximate weight in writing, since these help when discussing which van suits the job. It is also sensible to record the full collection address, any parking notes the seller mentions and whether they expect the exchange to happen at the door, in a garage or elsewhere. Open questions for your own checklist could include what happens if the seller delays and whether your hire window allows any flexibility, which is worth raising when you request a quote.
Setting Aside Time for Packing
How long will packing realistically take? Rather than guessing on the morning of the hire, sketch a schedule a few days ahead. List each room or area, the boxes or bags expected from each and any items that will be dismantled beforehand. If furniture needs legs removing or wardrobes emptying, note who is doing that and by when. Record the number of boxes, their rough sizes and any awkward pieces, as this information helps the team match the load to a suitable van. You might also decide a cut-off time for finishing, leaving room for the unexpected. Questions worth asking yourself include whether everything will be packed before the van arrives and whether you have allowed enough hours across the whole hire period, so the booking covers the full job rather than only part of it.
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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.