How To Choose The Right Van For Your Move

Moving house is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming at times.

Hiring a van is a great way to simplify the process and make things easier for everyone involved.

But with so many options available, how do you know which van to choose?

Keep reading to find out how to choose the right van for your move.

1. Van size

Choosing the right van size is one of the most important decisions when hiring a van.

The size depends on the scale of your move, particularly the number of rooms and the amount of furniture you need to transport.

For a one or two-bedroom flat, a long-wheel base van may be enough, while larger moves from a three or four-bedroom house will likely require an extra large wheel base or Luton van to fit bulky items.

2. Van type

The type of van is just as important as its size.

• Long Wheelbase Vans: If you need extra space but don’t want a 7.5-tonne van, extra large wheel base vans are a practical choice. These vans are ideal if you need extra room but don’t want to upgrade to a heavy-duty vehicle. They provide more space without compromising on height or width. Perfect for small-to-medium-sized moves or long-distance relocations.

• Luton Vans: Known for their box-like structure, Luton vans are perfect for bulky furniture. They often come with a tail lift, like our 3.5 ton box tail lift, and 7.5 ton box tail lift, making it easier to load and unload heavy items.

3. Keep load limits in mind 

Every van has a maximum load limit, also known as the payload capacity. Exceeding this limit can be both unsafe and illegal, leading to fines and jeopardising the safety of your move. 

Make sure to check the payload limit for your chosen van and ensure it can accommodate the combined weight of your furniture, belongings, and any passengers.

When in doubt, consult the team at PSD to help you estimate the total weight of your items.

4. Factor in fuel efficiency 

Fuel costs add up, especially for long-distance moves.

Smaller vans are usually more fuel-efficient, which is worth considering if you don’t have many items. However, multiple trips with a small van could end up costing more than one trip with a larger vehicle.

For long distances, diesel-powered vans often have better fuel economy. Some newer vans offer eco-driving features, like start-stop engines that cut fuel use when idling. Considering fuel efficiency helps balance cost and practicality.

5. Plan for parking and loading 

Don’t forget to consider where you’ll be parking the van.

Larger vans require more space, so if you’re moving to or from a location with limited parking, a smaller van might be more practical.

It’s also worth looking into whether the van requires any special parking permits, especially in urban areas.

7. Hire from a reputable van rental company 

To ensure a hassle-free move, always hire from a reputable van rental company like PSD Vehicle Hire.

Look out for reviews, check fleet availability, and ask about any additional fees, such as mileage charges or insurance.

We are always transparent about costs and can guide you in selecting the best van for your needs.

Hire a van with PSD

Whether you’re moving locally or relocating long-distance, investing time in selecting the right van will pay off by saving you time, effort, and money.

Hire a van today by contacting our expert team at PSD Vehicle Rental, either by calling 0345 222 1022 or emailing info@psdvehiclerental.co.uk.