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.
Checking Entrance and Item Dimensions
How do you know whether your biggest item will fit through the gap it needs to pass? Start by measuring each large piece at its widest and tallest points, including any packaging, and write the figures beside the item's name. Then measure the relevant doorways, stairwells, corridors and lift openings at both ends of the journey, recording the narrowest point of each rather than the average. Note whether any door can be removed and who would remove it, and whether a lift has a stated capacity label worth photographing. If an item comes apart, list which parts dismantle and keep the fixings with your notes. These recorded dimensions and access details are exactly what the team can use when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
When you buy something second-hand, the collection is often the part that needs the most careful notes. Ask the seller for their full address, a direct phone number and the name of whoever will be there on the day, then record all three. Agree a time window rather than a single slot, and confirm how you will recognise each other if you have not met. Request the item's measurements and, where you can, the width and height of the doorway it must leave through. Ask whether the item is on the ground floor or upstairs, and whether anything needs dismantling before it can be moved. Note the seller's preferred payment method and timing too, so nothing is left to sort out on the doorstep while a hire vehicle waits.
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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.