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.
How the right vehicle is confirmed
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.
Agreeing Collection Details with a Seller
If you are collecting something bought privately, it pays to settle the details with the seller before you enquire about a van. Ask when they will be in, whether the item can be collected at a specific hour, and get their phone number in case the timing needs to shift on the day. Record the address, any parking or access notes they mention, and whether anyone at their end will be available to help. Confirm the item's dimensions and whether it comes apart, then keep all of this alongside your hire dates. Having the seller's answers written down means you can pass on accurate information when asking for a quote and avoid a series of back-and-forth messages later.
Writing Down the Delivery End
The other end of the journey deserves the same attention as the collection. Note the full address where everything is going, the name and number of whoever will be there to receive it, and any time window they have given you. If the property has particular access arrangements, record what you have been told rather than what you assume, and keep the recipient's details separate from the seller's so the two are never mixed up. List which items belong at which address if the load is being split, and mark anything still unconfirmed as pending. A written record of both ends of the trip, including the access details and contact numbers, gives the team a complete picture when you request a quote and makes later changes easier to track.
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Things to check 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.