If you’re thinking of hiring a van in London for an upcoming adventurous trip or a house move or something else, having some tips and tricks handy makes sense. For starters, how do you determine which size van you need? This blog will aim to answer many such questions for you whilst also giving expert tips for a hassle-free van hire.
Keep in mind that finding the right van hire company in London is the key to a hassle-free experience. If you’d like to speak to one of our experts directly, call 0203 576 1060 or email info@edmontonvanhire.co.uk now.
The pros and cons of van hire in London
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of van hire, let’s weigh the pros and cons of renting a van in the vibrant capital of the UK.
Pros
1. Flexibility: London offers a plethora of options for van hire near you. This flexibility allows you to choose the perfect vehicle for your specific needs. Whether you’re moving house, transporting goods, or undertaking a DIY project, you’ll find the right van for hire in London with ease.
2. Cost-effective: Renting a van in London can be more cost-effective than alternative transportation methods. This is especially true for short-term needs. You pay only for the time you use the vehicle, avoiding long-term commitments.
3. Convenience: With van hire services scattered across the city, hiring a van in London is incredibly convenient. No matter where you are or what you need it for, you’ll likely find a van near you in Edmonton or other parts of London.
4. No maintenance: One of the often-overlooked pros of van hire is the lack of maintenance responsibility. Unlike owning a vehicle, you won’t have to worry about servicing, repairs, or ongoing upkeep.
Cons
1. Traffic congestion: London is notorious for its traffic jams. Navigating the city’s streets can be a challenge, even in a hired van. Plan your routes wisely to minimise hassle.
2. Parking woes: Finding suitable parking spaces for your hired van can be tricky, especially in busy areas. Be prepared to spend time searching for parking, and always adhere to local parking regulations.
3. Fuel costs: While van hire can be cost-effective, fuel expenses can add up. Factor in fuel costs when budgeting for your journey.
4. Insurance considerations: Understanding the insurance policies of the rental company is essential to avoid unexpected costs in case of accidents or damage. Additional insurance coverage might be necessary for peace of mind.
For reliable and cost-effective van hire in North London, trust our experienced team at Edmonton Van Hire. We have a large fleet of well-maintained vehicles for all your requirements.
Types of vans available for hire in London
In London, you can find various types of vans to suit different needs. Here are four common types of vans available for hire in the city:
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Small vans
Small vans, also known as compact vans, are perfect for light-duty tasks. They are nimble and easy to manoeuvre through London’s busy streets. These are ideal for small moves, deliveries, or transporting goods within the city.
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Medium vans
Medium-sized vans offer a bit more cargo space than small vans. They are suitable for medium-sized moves, carrying equipment, or making deliveries. These vans strike a balance between cargo capacity and manoeuvrability. Popular choices in this category include the short wheelbase van.
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Large vans
Large vans are spacious and capable of handling substantial loads. They are commonly used for moving larger items, such as furniture or appliances, and are a go-to choice for business deliveries. Large vans like the long wheelbase vans provide ample cargo space while still being manageable in city traffic.
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Luton vans with tail lift
Luton vans are recognised for their distinctive overhanging storage area, which provides additional vertical cargo space. These vans are often equipped with tail lifts, making loading and unloading heavy items more accessible. With suitable accessories, Luton vans can be your perfect choice for larger jobs like house moves and bulky item transport in London.
7 tips and tricks for hassle-free van hire in London
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Plan ahead
Meticulous planning should be your first step. Consider the specific requirements of your task, including the volume of items you need to transport and the type of van that suits your needs.
Booking your van hire in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons when availability may be limited. Planning ahead not only ensures that you get the right van for the job but also allows you to compare prices and potentially secure cost-effective deals.
By taking this proactive approach, you can eliminate last-minute stress and guarantee a hassle-free van hire experience in London.
Pro tip: There will be times when you won’t be able to avoid urgent hiring needs. Therefore, it makes sense to find a reliable van hire company that also offers high-quality vans on short notice. Do check with them if you will have 24/7 drop-off facilities as well.
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Check insurance
When you’re ready to hire a van in London, one of the most critical aspects to scrutinise is the insurance provided by the rental company. The UK mandates a basic level of insurance for all vehicles on the road. Which is why it’s essential to understand the extent of coverage offered by the van hire company.
In London, traffic congestion can be a hassle. It’s wise to consider additional insurance options for peace of mind. Adequate coverage can protect you from unexpected expenses in case of accidents, damage, or theft during your rental period.
Before you hit the road, make sure you’re well-informed about the insurance policies. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification.
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Know London’s low-emission zones
London takes air quality seriously, and this is evident in its Low Emission Zones (LEZ) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). To ensure a hassle-free van hire experience, it’s imperative to familiarise yourself with these zones before setting out.
Certain vehicles, particularly older diesel vans, may not meet the emissions standards required to enter these zones without incurring charges. Being aware of the LEZ and ULEZ boundaries, as well as the applicable charges, will prevent you from facing unexpected fines during your journey.
You can check your vehicle’s compliance and plan routes that avoid these zones if necessary. By staying informed about environmental regulations, you’ll not only save money but also contribute to a cleaner and greener London.
Pro tip: Hire vans that are ULEZ-compliant. For that to happen, you need to work with a trustworthy and experienced company that offers quality ULEZ-compliant vans. This makes your trip even more hassle-free anywhere in London.
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Prepare yourself for driving in London
Navigating the bustling streets of London can be a daunting task, even for experienced drivers. Whether you’re familiar with the city or it’s your first time behind the wheel, patience and preparation are key.
Utilise GPS or navigation apps to plan your routes effectively. Consider factors like traffic, road closures, and peak hours. Take your time and stay alert, as London’s road network can be intricate and crowded.
For expert tips on your first-time van driving in London, give our blog a read.
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Have a parking strategy in place
Parking in London, especially when you hire a van, can be a challenging endeavour. Research parking options in advance to streamline your journey.
Look for secure parking spaces, preferably ones designed for vans, to ensure the safety of your vehicle and its contents. It’s crucial to stay informed about local parking regulations and restrictions. Pay attention to signage. Avoid parking in designated bus or cycle lanes. And use designated parking lots whenever possible.
Factor parking fees into your budget, as they can vary depending on the location and time of day. A well-thought-out parking strategy will save you time, prevent fines, and contribute to a hassle-free van hire experience in London.
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Think of fuel efficiency
Fuel costs can quickly add up during your van hire adventure in London. More so with stop-and-go traffic. To optimise fuel efficiency, start by selecting a van that offers good mileage. Consider factors like engine size and fuel type to ensure you’re getting the most out of every gallon.
Plan your routes intelligently to minimise unnecessary driving and fuel consumption. Utilise navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates to steer clear of congested areas.
Pro tip: Before returning the van, fill up the tank to the same level as when you received it to avoid refuelling charges from the rental company.
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Inspect the van
Before you hit the road, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of the hired van. Carefully examine the vehicle inside and out, looking for any pre-existing damage, scratches, or dents.
Document any issues you find by taking photos and noting them on the rental agreement. This step is essential to protect yourself from being held responsible for damage that wasn’t your fault.
Additionally, ensure that all the necessary equipment, such as spare tires, jacks, and tools, are present and in good condition. By conducting a meticulous inspection, you’ll have peace of mind. It will make your van hire experience in London truly hassle-free.
Conclusion
Hiring the perfect van for your needs in London is an art you must master for the best results. From planning to awareness to preparation and even inspection; everything matters in this process. For no hassle with hiring a van, make sure to explore your options. Thorough research is the first step to finding the right van hire company in London. Make sure to ask for a quote that goes with your budget. A company that cares for you will make efforts to make it possible.
Like Edmonton Van Hire. We are willing to beat any quote you may have received from elsewhere. That doesn’t mean we let you compromise on quality. Our large fleet of small, medium, large, and Luton vans is well-maintained for you. Book your van online with us. You can also contact us for any queries.
