Whether you're shifting furniture across town or picking up materials for a weekend project, the right van makes the day easier. This guide walks you through choosing sensibly, collecting early without a rushed handover, and getting your documents in order before you pick up the phone.
Start With an Honest Look at Your Load
Before browsing van sizes, measure what you're actually moving. A double mattress and six boxes fits a smaller van; a sofa plus a dismantled wardrobe probably doesn't. Write down your bulkiest items first, then estimate around them. Customers who guess rather than measure often end up making two trips when one would have done.
Collecting the Van Properly
If you need an early start, say so when you enquire rather than assuming opening hours will suit you. Some branches open early by arrangement, though this isn't guaranteed. On the day, arrive with time to spare, walk round the van together, and photograph any marks you spot before driving off. It takes five minutes and saves arguments later.
Booking at the Right Time
Weekends and month-ends tend to be busiest, so booking a fortnight ahead gives you a proper choice rather than whatever's left. If your dates are flexible, a midweek slot often means less pressure and a more relaxed handover. One customer planning a house move booked three weeks early and got exactly the size she wanted.
Documents to Sort Before You Enquire
Have your driving licence to hand, along with a second form of ID and a card in your own name for the deposit. Check how long you've held your licence, as some firms apply minimum experience rules. Gathering these beforehand means your enquiry can turn into a booking in one call instead of stalling halfway through.
Questions before you book
How do I know which van to choose in Coleford?
Base it on your largest single item, not the total number of boxes. Measure height and length, allow room for padding, and describe the load when you enquire so staff can suggest a sensible size.
What should I check when collecting a hired van?
Walk round the vehicle, note any existing damage, check fuel level and mileage, and make sure mirrors, lights and controls feel right before setting off. Ask anything you're unsure about rather than working it out on the road.
