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.
Planning a collection with a seller
Suppose you have bought a wardrobe or a pallet of materials from a private seller and need to collect it yourself. Before anything else, ask the seller for the item's full dimensions, whether it separates into smaller parts, and how many pieces the purchase includes. Write down the collection address, the time you have agreed, and a direct phone number for the seller, then note anything they have said about access, such as which door the item will come out of. If the seller has offered a hand at your end or specified a strict time window, record that as well. When you contact the team, share these notes together with the hire dates and your access arrangements, and ask which van size suits the described load. Questions about the seller's own driveway or entrance should go back to the seller directly.
Planning the unloading order
If your day involves several addresses, writing the sequence down in advance keeps the plan clear. List each stop in the order you intend to visit, what is being delivered at each one, and a contact name and number for whoever is receiving those goods. Note the dimensions of the bulkiest pieces and which stop they belong to, along with any time windows the recipients have given you. If some items are heading into storage and others to a customer, mark which is which so nothing is confused on the day. Share this outline with the team alongside the hire dates and access arrangements, then ask which van options suit the combined load you have described. Any question about access at a recipient's premises is best answered by that recipient directly.
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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.