Moving to a new home is an exciting time, but often very challenging. One of the critical decisions you’ll face is choosing the right removal van size for your move. It’s a choice that can greatly influence the ease and cost of your relocation.
In this blog, we’ll explore the various aspects of selecting the ideal removal van size in the UK, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
What are the different removal van sizes in the UK?
Medium Wheels Base (MWB) Vans
MWB vans typically fall in the middle of the spectrum for removal van sizes. They are larger than small vans, like compact cargo vans, which are great for city driving and light loads.
At the same time, they are smaller than their larger counterparts, such as Long Wheelbase (LWB) vans or extra-large vans, which are used for heavy-duty hauling.
In terms of cargo capacity, MWB vans can generally hold a substantial amount of cargo, usually between 200 to 350 cubic feet. The exact amount can vary depending on the specific make and model of the van.
This makes them ideal for various business purposes, including local deliveries, trades, and service-based industries, where a good balance between cargo space and manoeuvrability is crucial.
Long Wheels Base (LWB) Vans
Long Wheelbase (LWB) vans are a category of commercial vehicles known for their larger cargo space. These vans are designed for businesses and individuals that require substantial cargo capacity without the need for a larger, heavy-duty vehicle.
LWB vans offer a spacious removal van size. They are suitable for transporting sizable loads and bulkier items, making them popular among delivery services, courier companies, and tradespeople who need to carry equipment and materials.
In terms of cargo capacity, LWB vans can typically hold between 350 to 600 cubic feet of cargo. The exact amount varies based on the make and model of the van.
Luton Van
Luton vans, often referred to as Luton box vans or Luton bodies, are a specific type of commercial vehicle commonly used for transporting bulky cargo.
The cargo capacity of Luton vans can vary depending on the specific model and modifications, but they are well-known for their ability to hold a substantial amount of goods. On average, a Luton van can hold between 600 to 1,000 cubic feet of cargo.
This impressive capacity makes them ideal for moving furniture, appliances, large parcels, and a wide range of commercial or residential items. Their ease of loading and unloading makes Luton vans a popular choice for moving companies.
7.5 Tonne Luton Van
A 7.5-tonne Luton van is a commercial vehicle designed for heavy-duty cargo transportation. These vans are often used by businesses and individuals for moving large loads, furniture, equipment, and other substantial items.
The term “7.5-tonne” refers to the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight (GVW), indicating that it can carry a maximum weight of 7.5 metric tons, which includes the vehicle’s own weight and the payload.
The cargo capacity of a 7.5-tonne Luton van can vary depending on the specific make and model, but they are known for their ability to hold a significant amount of cargo. On average, these vans can carry anywhere from 800 to 1,500 cubic feet of goods.
This makes them suitable for transporting bulky and heavy items, making them a popular choice for removal companies, and large-scale deliveries.
What are the removal van costs for each size?
The cost for removal vans varies depending on the following factors:
- Distance: The distance between the old and new homes is a significant cost factor. Longer distances typically result in higher transportation costs.
- Volume of Goods: The amount of furniture and personal belongings to be moved affects the size of the vehicle required and, consequently, the cost.
- Type of Items: Special or fragile items that require extra care, packing, or handling may incur additional charges.
- Packing Services: Opting for professional packing services can add to the overall cost.
- Timing: Moving during peak seasons, weekends, or holidays can be more expensive.
- Insurance: The level of insurance coverage chosen for the move can affect the cost.
We recommend getting in touch for a free quote. Our well-trained team will be happy to chat to you over the phone, to figure out exactly what you need on moving day, and then will provide a removal van cost that is reflective of the service that you will need.
Can I Move with Just a Small Removal Van?
Moving with just a small removal van is potentially feasible, depending on the size of your belongings and the distance of your move. Small removals vans, often referred to as compact or mini vans, are suitable for small households with a limited amount of possessions. They can only really be used when:
- You have minimal furniture and possessions that can fit into a smaller vehicle. It’s ideal for studio apartments, one-bedroom flats, or single-room moves.
- You aren’t moving too far. Small vans are best suited for local or short-distance moves.
- You are able to pack up all of your belongings yourself.
- You are in an unfurnished flat, and don’t need to bring furniture.
Moving with a small removal van is a practical option for those with minimal belongings and short-distance moves. However, careful planning and organization are essential to ensure a smooth and cost-effective relocation. For larger moves, you may need to consider larger vehicles or professional moving services.
Do I need any additional equipment when hiring a removal van?
If you are just hiring a van, and not a full removal service, then you may need to invest in the following equipment:
- Packing Supplies: You’ll need packing materials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and protective blankets to safeguard your belongings during transportation.
- Furniture Covers: Protective covers for furniture items, such as sofas and mattresses, are crucial to prevent damage and dirt during transit.
- Straps and Tie-Downs: These are essential for securing your items in the van to prevent shifting during the journey.
- Hand Truck or Dolly: These tools can make moving heavy items more manageable by reducing the physical effort required.
- Tool Set: A basic toolkit can be handy for disassembling and reassembling furniture or handling unexpected issues.
- Ramps: If you’re moving heavy items like appliances, having a ramp can ease loading and unloading.
- Trolley: A trolley or moving cart can help with moving boxes and smaller items.
However, if you choose a removals company with a packing service, you do not need to worry about buying any materials at all. We can come in and pack up all of your furniture and belongings using the highest quality materials.
Clothes will be transported on hanging garment rails to prevent creasing, delicate items such as glass or china will be carefully packaged into double-wall cartons, and items such as books will be packed into smaller boxes.
Each box will be labelled as it is packed to ensure that it goes to the appropriate place in your new home, and we offer an unpacking service to make the process even easier.
Where to find the right removal van size for your move
We understand that it can be daunting to move everything you own to a brand new place. There are heaps of things to consider, and all you want to do is click your fingers and it be done.
We can make this happen for you. You can relax while we organise packing, insurance, storage and the move itself. By getting a free quote from us, you are not obligated to use our services, and are not tied into anything. Give us a call today to begin your stress-free removals process.