How to Choose the Right Size Van for Your Move

Are you planning a move? Whether you’re moving home, office, or simply decluttering, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right van size. Too small and you’ll be making multiple trips. Too large and you may end up spending more than necessary.  

Here at TCHire, we help you make the right choice every time. With a wide range of vehicles available for van hire in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and across the West Midlands, we’re here to make sure you hire the perfect van for a smooth and stress-free move – here's how.  

1. Think about what you’re moving  

Before booking, take the time to assess everything that needs to go. Are you moving just a few boxes and smaller items, or do you have large furniture, white goods, and a whole house to transport? The volume and weight of your load will determine the van size you need.  

Smaller moves, like a studio flat or a student relocation, can usually be managed with a compact or medium van. But if you’re moving from a larger property or have heavy, bulky items like wardrobes, beds, or sofas, you’ll probably need one of our larger vehicles such as a Luton van or long wheelbase model.

2. Consider access and parking  

It’s not just about what fits in the van – it's also about what you’ll be driving and where you’ll be parking it. If you’re moving from a flat on a narrow street or a busy urban area, manoeuvring a large van might be tricky. In that case, a smaller or mid-size van hire vehicle could make loading and unloading much easier.  

However, if you’ve got plenty of space to park and turn, a bigger van can save you time by reducing the number of trips required.  

3. Are you moving solo or with help?

Think about how much help you’ll have on the day. If you’re moving on your own, ease and safety are key. Larger vans with features like tail lifts make it easier to load heavier items, reducing strain and the risk of damage.

It’s also important to consider the van’s interior height and loading height – taller vans allow you to stand inside while loading, which can make a big difference if you’ve got lots of items to organise.  

4. Don’t forget to check insurance and mileage  

Insurance and mileage also have a part to play in choosing the right size van. Here at TCHire, all our van hire prices include insurance, VAT, and breakdown cover, so there are no surprises when it comes to cost. If you’re a business customer and prefer to use your own insurance, that’s fine – we just need to see a valid certificate that covers the rental period.  

Mileage is also something to keep in mind. We offer:

• 150 miles per day for short-term hire
• 1,000 miles per week
• 2,500 miles over 28-day rentals

If you exceed your allowance, a small mileage fee applies, so make sure to plan your journey accordingly. Find out more important things to know with our FAQs.  

5. Book early to avoid disappointment  

Van hire services get booked up quickly, especially on weekends or at the end of the month. To avoid last minute stress, it’s best to reserve your vehicle in advance. Our van rental in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands is flexible and reliable, with a variety of van sizes to suit every move.  

By planning ahead, you’ll secure the right vehicle at the right time and enjoy a smoother and more organised move.  

Let’s Get You Moving  

Choosing the right van doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little planning and support from TCHire, you’ll be ready to move efficiently, safely, and affordably. From local moves to long-distance relocations, our expert team is here to help every step of the way.  

Get a quote or give us a call on 01902 420204 today. Whatever the size of your move, we’ve got the right van for you.