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.
Arranging a Collection With a Seller
If you have bought an item from a private seller, the first thing to agree is when the collection will actually happen. Ask the seller for their preferred window, a contact number for the day, and a description of where the item is currently sitting, such as upstairs in a house or in a garage. Record the item's dimensions and, if you can, the number of pieces it comes apart into, since these details are useful to pass on with your enquiry. Confirm whether the seller needs notice before you arrive and whether there are any access arrangements worth noting, such as a gated driveway. Sharing these details with the team, along with your hire dates, gives them a fuller picture when discussing which vans they offer.
Weighing One Trip Against Several
If your list of jobs spreads across more than one address, it is worth mapping them out before deciding on a single trip or several. Note each pickup and drop-off, the size of the items involved, and how the timing at one stop might affect the next. Some collections depend on other people being available, so record their hours or preferred contact times alongside your own availability. You might find that grouping nearby addresses on one day suits your schedule, or that splitting the work across two shorter hires fits better with when sellers can meet you. Whichever way you lean, the dates you choose and the total load you describe are what the team will use when suggesting a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van where available.
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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.