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.
Planning a Collection With a Seller
If you have bought something second-hand, agree the collection date and time with the seller before finalising your hire dates. Ask them for the item's dimensions and any assembly details, since a wardrobe that comes apart differs from one that does not. Note the seller's phone number and confirm whether they expect you at a specific window. Record what else, if anything, you plan to collect on the same trip, with sizes for each piece, so you can describe the full load when speaking with the team. It also helps to ask the seller about parking or access at their end, though only they can answer that. When requesting a quote, mention the dates, the items and any flexibility you have.
Organising a Household Move
Suppose your move date is fixed but the packing is not. Begin by listing each room's contents and marking the items that need transporting, then note approximate dimensions for the largest pieces such as sofas, wardrobes and white goods. Count the boxes you expect and record any awkward shapes separately. Decide whether everything goes in one hire period or whether storage is involved at either end, and write down the contact details for anyone receiving goods at the destination address. If friends are helping, note who is available on which day. Questions to put to the team include which van option suits your listed load, how the hire dates align with your moving schedule, and what access details they need from you.
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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.