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.
Drawing Up a Household Move List
Which rooms are you moving first? Answering that question early gives your household plan a shape. Before contacting the team, sketch a room-by-room inventory with rough counts of boxes, bags and furniture, noting anything unusually long, wide or tall. Write down your preferred dates plus a fallback, and decide whether the move happens in one day or across several. If some belongings are heading to storage or to a relative, list those separately with their own destinations. Questions worth raising when you ask for a quote include whether a crew van suits items that need two people, and what the hire period covers. A clear written summary of the load, access and dates can then be shared in a single message.
Collecting Furniture From a Seller
Buying something from a private seller? A few details gathered beforehand keep the collection straightforward. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions, whether it comes apart, and where it currently sits — a ground-floor room, an upstairs flat or a garage. Confirm the collection address, the earliest arrival time that works for them, and a phone number in case plans change on the day. Note whether parking is directly outside or a short walk away, since that may affect whether you prefer a small van or a larger option. When requesting a quote, mention the hire window you have in mind and ask what happens if the seller needs to rearrange. Recording all of this before booking means the dates, load description and access notes are ready together.
Explore other van hire areas
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.