Did you know that there are a variety of sizes and models for removal vans? A reputable moving company will allocate the best removal van for your move but it is important to know what different sizes are available.
It can be tough to work out what size van is most suitable for your needs when looking to move house. It can often seem impossible as you take stock of all of your belongings. A professional removal company will help you with the process of moving and can assess what items you have and how big they are. Once they know this, they can ensure you have the perfect sized van for your move.
Why Should You Hire A Removal Van?
You can choose between a removal company or man and van services but there are many benefits to hiring a removal van. Not only are your possessions completely protected but there are many other reasons you should consider hiring a removals service.
They will have the necessary equipment to help more your items in a safe and efficient way. The majority of the hard work will be done for you, and you can have peace of mind that everything is sorted.
You should hire a man and van if you’re moving:
>- From a flat or house bigger than 1 bedroom
- Heavy and/or bulky furniture
- Specialist expensive items
- Fragile items
- Furniture that needs to be dismantled and reassembled at the new property
What Sizes Are There?
There are a few different van sizes that movers use.
These include:
Medium Wheelbase Transit and Sprinter Van
These have an average loading capacity of 280-380 cubic feet and can transport between 30 and 40 boxes. These are the most commonly used removal vans across the UK. The most commonly used transit van models are the Ford Transit or the Mercedes Sprinter.
There are many benefits to hiring one of these. If you only have a small amount to move, these are great for this. They are cheaper than the other vehicles as they are fairly small. They can usually hold the personal belongings of 1 or 2 people and have an easy loading platform and a high roof, for an easy move.
They are often abbreviated to MWB vans.
Long Wheelbase Transit and Sprinter Van
These have an average loading capacity of 380-530 cubic feet and can transport between 30 and 50 boxes. They are slightly larger than MWB vans and can come with either a high or a low roof.
The vans are perfect for moving 1 to 2 bedroom flats however the specific dimensions will depend on the exact make and model of the van your removal company is using. These vans can carry a range of white goods such as kitchen appliances or pieces of furniture such as dining tables.
They are often abbreviated to LWB vans and some people call them ‘Jumbo Sprinters’ or ‘Jumbo Transits’.
3.5 Tonne Luton Van
These have an average loading capacity of 550 cubic feet and can transport between 40 to 60 boxes.
These are very popular among removal companies. They aren’t much bigger than LWB vans but are often favoured by removal teams.
A 3.5 tonne Luton van often comes with a tail lift to help with the loading. They can manoeuvre easily through narrow streets and are especially popular for London moves. They are great for moving a 1-2 bedroom flat. If you are moving boxes and furniture, you should be able to fit 45 boxes around other furniture. Without furniture, the vans should hold up to 60 moving boxes.
What Size Do I Need To Move?
This will all depend on the amount of stuff you have to move.
Every piece of furniture has a cubic feet size value or can be measured in cubic metres. The size of this can help your removal company to work out the size of moving van required.
It is certainly recommended that you hire a professional and experienced removal firm to help calculate the size needed. Dimensions will vary depending on specific factors such as make and model.
A LWB has inner dimensions of 4.2m/14.1ft in length, 1.7m/5ft in width and 1.8m/5.9ft in height. The recommended property size for this is a studio flat or a standard sized garage.
A 3.5 Tonne Luton Van has inner dimensions of 4.0m/13.1ft in length, 2.0m/6.5ft in width and 2.2m/7.2ft in height. The recommended property size for one of these is a 1-2 bedroom flat or a small house.
What Moving Equipment Do They Use?
Any good moving services will have the correct equipment to safely load your items. Different moving companies may utilise different equipment. If you are moving furniture into storage, they may need specialist equipment.
These are just a few of the basic items that may be included:
- Basic toolkit
- 2 or 4 wheel furniture doilies
- Ramps
- Hoisting straps
- Protective work wear
- Crates or bins
- Furniture blankets
Some offer additional services which may need more equipment. If they offer packing services, they will offer packing tape, packing paper, bubble wrap and moving boxes.
What Insurances Do You Need For Removal Vans?
There are two types of commercial van insurance cover that you should look for.
These are:
- Hire and Reward Insurance This covers physical vehicles and is a legal requirement for any removal van and the transportation of goods for monetary reward.
- Goods In Transit Insurance This covers the cost of the goods and the property whilst everything is being moved. The removal companies or van drivers are not legally required to purchase this so it is important you ask if they have this.
Save Money On Your House Move
Now you know more about removal vans, you can find the perfect removal company for your needs. Don’t forget to ask about their hourly rate, the vans they have available and their insurance coverage.