The size of your house, and the number of possessions you have will determine the size and specification of van is suitable for your house move. There are a variety of models of vans here at Skipton Self Drive that are perfect for removals, whether you’re waving a child off to university and the hatchback just won’t cut it, or you have a 5-bed house full of possessions that need shifting. There are many reasons why you would need to hire a van and it’s important to understand the different vehicles available to you.
In this blog we will provide you with our removal van size guide that will translate the narrative into more understandable terms to determine what sort of removal vehicle is the most appropriate for your needs.
Why Should You Hire a Van for your House Move?
Hiring a van is beneficial to ensure your possessions are protected. Moving vans will have the necessary equipment required to transport your items safely and efficiently. It’s also a much more cost-effective way to move home, considering the costs involved with of hiring a removal company to do the job for you.
Benefits of hiring a van:
- Cost-effective: Hiring a van typically costs less than hiring a removal company.
- Flexibility: Allows you to plan and execute the move on your own schedule.
- Control: You have complete control over the packing, loading, and unloading process.
- Customisation: Can choose the size and type of van that suits your needs best.
- Privacy: Keeps your belongings private and secure during the move.
- Learning opportunity: Provides hands-on experience in moving, potentially saving money on future moves.
- Local knowledge: Better understanding of the route and area, especially if moving within the same locality.
- Minimal bureaucracy: Simplifies the process without the need for extensive paperwork or contracts.
Luton Tail Lift
Luton vans are the ideal and most popular van for a house move. We have two different types of Luton vans in our fleet, the low loader and tail lift, both are popular choices which have differing benefits.
.jpeg)
They can be driven with a standard driving licence and are the perfect size for moving home 3–4-bedroom homes. They have a larger loading capacity than other vans in the fleet, with a 4 metre long and 2-metre-wide loading body.
Luton vans are often preferable because of the presence of a tail lift. The tail lift is a mechanical device permanently installed on the rear of the van. It assists in moving goods from the ground to the loading dock, reducing the heavy lifting for you.
Additionally, the wheel arches don’t intrude into the storage area, making it easier to pack boxes.
Luton Low Loader
The other type of Luton van is the low loader. Like their tail lift counterpart, low loaders are ideal for a house move as they’re very spacious allowing you can fit in a lot more and transport bulkier items.
.jpeg)
They get the name low loader as the rear loading height of these vehicles is low enough to easily lift/slide items into the van, ideal for those large heavy items such as beds, sofas, wardrobes and white goods.
Medium Van (SWB) Van
The medium vans in the fleet such as the Ford Transit Custom are a great option if you’re moving from a flat into a 1-2 bed house. They can fit around 30 boxes depending on size of course. If you’re moving items such as washing machines, be mindful that they account for around 6 boxes worth or space.
.jpeg)
A medium size van is also a great choice for dropping one of the kids off at uni, when the hatchback just won’t cut it. We all know teenagers aren’t the best at traveling light, so rather than make them limit what they take, make your life easier by hiring a van!
The average loading length of this van is 2.5m. To determine if your belongings can fit in this vehicle, a medium-sized shed is a good point of reference. Our SWB vans accommodate 2 passengers and a driver.
Long Wheelbase (LWB) Van
These vehicles are ideal for one- or two-bedroom flats. LWB vans can carry large items like furniture, appliances, and electronics, including a collapsible bed. Alongside these you could fit up to 30 boxes depending on their size and contents.
.jpg)
The average loading length of this van is 3.4 metre. To determine if your belongings can fit in this van, consider whether your stuff would fit in a single garage. Our LWB vans accommodate 2 passengers and a driver.
Extra Large Van
Our extra-large vans are the largest panel vans in our fleet. This van is great for a house move or if you’re transporting anything extra-long!
.jpeg)
Being able to carry up to 1235kg and a load length of 4.3 metres makes this van the perfect choice for moving a two-bed house worth of belongings, especially if you don’t have items such as white goods and fridge/freezers to move as well. In our fleet we have the Volkswagen Crafter which accommodates 2 passengers and a driver.
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that the vans can vary in size depending on the model. Navigating the world of removal vans can be simplified by understanding the diverse range of sizes and models available. This guide sheds lights on the various options, making it easier for you to choose the most suitable van for your needs.
If you’re still not sure which can is right for you, we’d be happy to offer any advice to help you make the correct choice. You can contact us here.
