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
Pick the van to match the load. Small vans are ideal for boxes, tools and light collections. Medium or long-wheelbase vans handle furniture, stock and trade equipment, while Lutons are the better choice for bulkier house-move loads. The range on offer includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB, depending on dates, driver details and availability. The exact make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat the vehicle examples as a guide to the type of hire available rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Agreeing Details with a Seller
If you have bought furniture from a private seller, the conversation with them shapes most of your plan. Ask for the item's exact dimensions, whether it comes apart, and which floor it sits on currently. Agree a collection window rather than a single hour, exchange phone numbers, and note any parking or access restrictions at their address that you can pass on when booking. Record the delivery address too, along with a contact number for whoever receives the piece. Think about whether you will need blankets or straps of your own, and whether the seller can hold the item if your dates shift. When requesting a quote, share the measurements, the dates and the access details, then ask which van option fits and what remains undecided.
Working Out Your Unloading Order
Where the delivery address has several rooms or floors, drawing a simple plan of the property can settle the day before it starts. Note which items belong in each room, mark anything destined for upstairs, and identify pieces that might need doors removing or angles checking. Record the order you would like things brought in, plus a contact number for someone at the property who can answer questions on the day. If helpers are joining, list who arrives when and how long each can stay. Think about where the van will stand while unloading, and note any time limit on that. Ask the team how the hire period covers your schedule, which vehicle suits the full inventory, and which details you still need to confirm.
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.