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.
Planning a Collection with a Seller
If you have bought a large item from a private seller, the collection details deserve as much attention as the van booking itself. Start by messaging the seller to agree a specific date and a time window rather than a vague afternoon, and ask whether the item is on the ground floor, upstairs, in a garage or in a shed, since this affects how the day runs. Record the seller's phone number and the full collection address, including any house name or flat number, and note whether they can help on the day or expect you to bring helpers. Check, too, whether the item comes apart and whether fixings are included. All of this can go into your enquiry so the team can suggest a suitable van from the range for the dates you have in mind.
Recording Item Dimensions Carefully
A tape measure and ten minutes before you book can settle most questions about which van to request. Measure each item at its longest, widest and tallest points, including feet, arms, handles and any packaging still attached, and write the figures against the item's name rather than trusting memory. For furniture that separates, such as a dining table with removable legs or a wardrobe with a detachable top, record the dimensions of the largest single piece, because that is the figure the team will work from. A quick sketch with arrows can help if the shapes are unusual. Once you have the full list, you can ask which van size matches it, whether any item needs a dropside or Luton rather than a small van, and whether the team needs the measurements in a particular format.
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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.