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.
Planning a collection with a seller
Suppose you have agreed to collect a sofa from a private seller and need a van for the journey. Before requesting a quote, it is worth writing down the item's measurements, including its width, depth and height, along with any description the seller has given you. Ask them when the item can be collected, whether anyone will be present to hand it over and what contact number they will use on the day. If the seller has mentioned narrow lanes or limited parking, note that too, though questions about access at the property itself are for them to answer rather than the hire team. Keeping the seller's details, the collection address and your preferred dates together in one message gives the team a clear picture to discuss which van options might suit the job.
Organising a household move
If a house move is on the horizon, a room-by-room list can shape your van hire conversation. Walk through each space and jot down the furniture, boxes and awkward pieces you intend to take, adding rough measurements for anything bulky such as wardrobes or dining tables. Decide which items are definitely going and which might be sold or left behind, then count the boxes so you have a working total. Think about the access arrangements at both ends, including whether stairs or gates are involved, and record your preferred hire dates plus a backup if the completion slips. Once you have this picture, you can ask the team about matching the job to the available van types and raise any remaining questions about delivery or collection before you book.
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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.