If you’re planning on moving house, transporting goods or embarking on a road trip, hiring a van is a smart solution. However, with so many options available, it’s important to ensure you select the right size for your needs. Choosing the wrong size can lead to issues such as cramped space, damage to goods, and even legal problems. That’s where this guide comes in – fortunately our team of experts who work at our reliable van hire in Chelmsford are providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. From small city vans to larger Luton vans, we’ll help you understand the differences and identify the van that’s right for you. So, whether you’re moving house, a small business owner transporting goods or a family embarking on a road trip, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about selecting the right size van for your needs.
Factors to consider before choosing a van size
Before you choose a van size, there are several factors you should consider. The first factor is the type of goods
you will be transporting. If you are going to be transporting large items such as furniture or appliances, you
will need a larger van. On the other hand, if you are only transporting smaller items such as boxes or bags, a
smaller van may be sufficient. The second factor to consider is the distance you will be traveling. If you are only traveling a short distance, you may be able to get away with a smaller van. However, if you are traveling a long distance, you will want a larger van that is more comfortable and has more space for your belongings. The third factor to consider is the number of people who will be traveling with you. If you are traveling alone, a small van may be sufficient. However, if you are traveling with a family or a group of friends, you will need a larger van to accommodate everyone.
Types of vans available for hire
There are several types of vans available for hire, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most
common types of vans are small, medium, large, and extra-large. Small vans are usually the cheapest option and are ideal for transporting small items such as boxes or bags. They are also ideal for city driving as they are easy to manoeuvre and park. However, they may not be suitable for larger items or long-distance travel. Medium vans are slightly larger than small vans and are ideal for transporting larger items such as furniture or appliances. They are also suitable for longer journeys as they are more comfortable and have more space. However, they are more expensive than small vans and may be more difficult to park in some areas. Large vans are the next step up from medium vans and are ideal for transporting even larger items such as machinery or equipment. They are also suitable for long-distance travel as they are more comfortable and have more space. However, they are more expensive than medium vans and may be more difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Extra-large vans are the largest option available and are ideal for transporting large quantities of goods or equipment. They are also suitable for long-distance travel as they are more comfortable and have more space. However, they are the most expensive option and may be more difficult to park in some areas.
Small vans: When to choose them and what to expect
Small vans are ideal for transporting small items such as boxes or bags. They are also ideal for city driving as they are easy to manoeuvre and park. However, they may not be suitable for larger items or long-distance travel.
If you are moving house and only have a few small items to transport, a small van may be sufficient. They are also ideal for small business owners who need to transport goods to and from their premises. When hiring a small van, you can expect it to have a payload capacity of around 625kg. They are around 4m in length and can seat up to two people. They are also fuel-efficient, making them a cost-effective option.

Medium vans: When to choose them and what to expect
Medium vans are slightly larger than small vans and are ideal for transporting larger items such as furniture or
appliances. They are also suitable for longer journeys as they are more comfortable and have more space. If you are moving house and have several larger items to transport, a medium van may be more suitable. They are also ideal for small business owners who need to transport larger quantities of goods.
When hiring a medium van, such as a short wheel base, you can expect it to have a payload capacity of around 1000kg. They are around 5m in length and can seat up to three people. They are also more fuel-efficient than larger vans, making them a cost-effective option.

Large vans: When to choose them and what to expect
Large vans are ideal for transporting even larger items such as machinery or equipment. They are also suitable
for long-distance travel as they are more comfortable and have more space.
If you are moving house and have several large items to transport, a large van may be more suitable. They are also ideal for small business owners who need to transport large quantities of goods or equipment. When hiring a large van, such as a long wheel base or a luton, you can expect it to have a load capacity ranging between 1100kg – 1266kg. They are usually between 6m-7m in length and can seat up to three people. They are also more expensive than medium vans, but they are more comfortable and have more space.

Van size selection based on your specific needs
When selecting a van size, it’s important to consider your specific needs. If you are moving house, you will need
to consider the size and quantity of the items you need to transport. If you are a small business owner, you will
need to consider the quantity and size of the goods you need to transport. If you are going on a road trip, you will need to consider the number of people and the amount of luggage you will be taking. Once you have considered your specific needs, you can then choose the van size that best suits your requirements. Remember, it’s always better to choose a slightly larger van than you think you need, as this will give you more space and make the journey more comfortable.

Tips for packing your van efficiently
Once you have selected the right size van, it’s important to pack it efficiently to ensure your goods are
transported safely. Here are some tips for packing your van efficiently:
- Start with the heaviest items and place them at the bottom of the van.
- Use blankets or padding to protect fragile items.
- Use straps or bungee cords to secure items in place.
- Fill any gaps with soft items such as pillows or blankets.
- Make sure all items are secure and can't move around during transit.
Conclusion: Where to find the right van hire in Chelmsford
Selecting the right size van is essential for a successful move, transportation of goods, or road trip. By
considering your specific needs and choosing the right size van, you can ensure your journey is comfortable
and stress-free. If you’re looking for reliable van hire in Chelmsford, look no further than our team of experts. We offer a range of vehicles to suit all needs and budgets, and our friendly team is always on hand to provide advice and assistance. Contact us today to find out more about our van hire services