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.
Writing a load inventory before you enquire
The first thing worth writing down is a full list of what you plan to carry. Go room by room if you are moving home, or item by item if it is a one-off furniture collection, and note anything awkward such as wardrobes, sofas, mattresses, workbenches or boxed tools. Record approximate dimensions for the larger pieces, plus a rough count of boxes, bags and loose items, and mark anything that dismantles into smaller sections. If some items might be left behind or collected later, flag those separately so the picture stays clear. Once the list is drafted, you can share it with the team when you ask about a van, along with your dates and access arrangements, and ask which vehicle group they would consider for that load. Keeping the inventory on paper also gives you something to check against on the day itself.
Coordinating a collection with a seller
When you are collecting something bought from a private seller, the details worth gathering go beyond the item itself. Ask for the seller's full address, a mobile number and a preferred time window, and write down what the item measures and whether it comes apart. Confirm whether they can help at the agreed time or whether you are expected to bring people with you, and note any gate codes, parking arrangements or access restrictions at their end. If the seller is flexible on timing, ask how late they can realistically hold the item, then match that against your hire dates before you commit. When you request a quote, pass on the collection address, the item dimensions and your planned timings, and raise any questions still unanswered, such as what happens if the collection runs over the agreed day.
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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.