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.
Picking a suitable van
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.
Collecting details from a seller
If you are collecting furniture from a private seller, confirm the collection day and time window with them before you request a quote. Ask for the item's dimensions in writing, including height, width and depth, plus whether it comes apart, because a wardrobe and a flat-packed wardrobe are different jobs. Record the seller's phone number and address, and note any access limits they mention, such as a narrow lane or a specific loading window. If the item sits in an upstairs flat, that detail belongs in your enquiry too. Once you know what you are carrying, the team can discuss whether a small van, Transit or Luton suits, subject to availability. Questions about delivery versus collection of the van itself can also be raised at that point.
Writing a room-by-room inventory
A household move runs on lists, so begin with an inventory split room by room. Note each item's approximate dimensions, especially for beds, wardrobes, sofas and white goods, since these figures help the team suggest a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available. If some pieces are staying behind or going to different addresses, mark them separately and record each destination's contact details. Set the hire dates once you know the completion or handover timing, and flag any chance the schedule could slip by a day. Where access at either end involves restrictions the property contact has described, pass that information on in your enquiry. Anything still undecided, such as a second trip or storage stop, is worth raising when you ask for a price.
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Last checks 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.