Start with the cargo, not the calendar. If you're shifting a larder's worth of kitchen units or clearing a garage ahead of a sale, the size of the load decides everything else: which vehicle suits, how long you need it, and what the hire will cost. Work through the four stages below and the booking almost arranges itself.
Size the load before choosing a vehicle
List the bulkiest pieces first, the sofa, the chest freezer, the stack of scaffolding boards, and measure them honestly. A short-wheelbase panel van copes with boxes and flat-pack furniture; awkward or tall items may demand a high roof or a Luton-style body. Exact models can't always be promised on the day, so it's worth knowing which alternatives would still swallow your goods if the fleet is stretched.
Build a realistic timetable around helpers and access
Once the vehicle is settled, work backwards from when your helpers are free and when the property can be accessed. Allow time for the handover itself, a walkaround, a quick orientation, fuel, before the first item goes in. Ask what happens if you're running twenty minutes behind, and whether returning outside opening hours is possible. Grace arrangements differ between firms, so get the position in writing rather than assuming goodwill.
Understand deposits, mileage and cover before signing
The headline daily rate is only part of the bill. Expect questions about security deposits and card pre-authorisations, and check whether mileage is capped or charged per extra mile. Fuel policies, full-to-full versus refill-on-return, are worth confirming too. If you're weighing up damage protection, ask specifically about exclusions: windscreens, tyres and roof damage are common sticking points.
Sort driver details and documents in advance
Whoever takes the wheel needs a licence that covers the vehicle's weight on a standard category B entitlement, worth verifying if the van is on the larger side. Hire desks typically want the photocard, proof of address, and a DVLA share code so they can view endorsements. Nominate every driver at the booking stage rather than on the day, and check any minimum age or experience requirements that could catch a younger helper out.
Questions before you book
Which vehicle should I pick for a house clearance in Lostwithiel?
Measure your largest items first, then match them to a panel van, high-roof model or larger body style, accepting that an equivalent vehicle may be substituted if your first choice isn't available.
What documents will I need when collecting the van?
Bring the photocard licence for each named driver, proof of address, and a DVLA share code so entitlements can be checked at the counter. Confirm deposit and payment requirements when you book.
