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.
Writing a room-by-room inventory
If the job involves a house move, a written inventory can settle several questions before the van is booked. List each item you plan to carry, note which room it belongs in at the far end, and mark anything fragile or awkwardly shaped. Measuring tall furniture and recording those dimensions gives the team a clearer picture than a simple item count. You might also note the order in which things will be needed on arrival, purely as information for your own plan. When you enquire, ask which van sizes are available for the load you have described and whether the dates you have in mind are workable. Any gaps in the list can be raised then rather than on the day.
Planning a collection with a seller
Collecting furniture bought from a private seller brings its own set of details to pin down early. Confirm the collection address, a named contact and a phone number that will be answered on the day, and agree a time window rather than a vague morning slot. Ask the seller for the item's dimensions and any packaging it comes with, then include those figures in your enquiry. It is also worth noting whether the item is on the ground floor or upstairs, and any lift or corridor details the seller mentions, so you have the full picture for your own arrangements. Open questions for the hire team could include which van sizes are available on your dates and what the options are if the collection overruns.
Explore other van hire areas
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.