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.
Agreeing Collection Details with a Seller
If you have arranged to collect a sofa from a private seller, the details you gather beforehand will shape the whole hire. Ask for the earliest and latest times the seller can wait in, and note both in case earlier jobs or traffic delay you. Find out whether the item sits in a ground-floor room, upstairs or in a garage, and whether anyone at the address can bring it out to the vehicle. Record the seller's phone number so you can call if plans change on the day. If a second item has been added since the original agreement, check its size as well. Passing these notes to the team alongside your dates gives them a clearer picture for the quote.
Measuring Bulky Items Before You Enquire
Measuring before you enquire is one of the most useful steps you can take. For each large item, write down the length, width and height at the widest points, including any legs, arms or handles that fold out. A wardrobe measured without its cornice, or a cabinet measured with the doors shut when they normally stand open, can mislead. Note whether anything dismantles, and if so whether you have the tools and instructions to take it apart. If goods are still in their original boxes, the listed dimensions usually appear on the packaging. Keep every measurement in the same unit, and photograph anything awkward. Send the complete list with your hire dates so the team can match the job to a suitable van.
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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.