How to hire a self-drive van in London

Why choose self-drive van hire in London

Hiring a self-drive van gives you the flexibility to move on your own schedule without waiting for professional movers. You can pick up the van when it suits you and complete the journey at your own pace. This level of control makes it ideal for busy people who need freedom when planning a move.

One of the main advantages of hiring from a professional van hire company is the assurance that you will not be left stranded if something goes wrong. In the unlikely event that the van breaks down, the hire company will usually arrange roadside assistance and provide a replacement vehicle as quickly as possible. This means your move or delivery can continue with minimal disruption, giving you peace of mind throughout the hire period.

Hiring from a professional van hire company is the assurance that you will not be left stranded if something goes wrong.

Self-drive van hire is usually more affordable than hiring a full removal service. You only pay for the van and the hire period, rather than labour costs for movers. This can make a big difference for students, families, or small businesses that are working with a tight budget.

You also stay in full control of your belongings throughout the entire journey. This reduces the risk of damage, misplacement, or delays that can sometimes occur when using external movers. Many people find peace of mind in handling their own possessions directly.

What documents you need before hiring

You will usually need a full UK driving licence that has been held for at least 12 months. Some van hire companies may require a longer driving history, especially for larger vans. It is always best to check the requirements of the specific provider before booking.

Most companies will ask for proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or a bank statement. These documents must usually be dated within the last three months. This step helps the hire company confirm your identity and address for security purposes.

Make sure to bring a valid payment card for the deposit and rental fee. Many providers will not accept cash payments. The deposit will normally be refunded when the van is returned in the same condition.

Understanding van sizes and choosing the right one

Compact and easy to drive smaller van hire

Small vans are ideal for light deliveries, student moves, or transporting just a few boxes. They are easier to drive, fit into smaller parking spaces, and do not feel intimidating for those who have only driven cars before. If you only have a small load, this option can save you money and hassle.

Medium van hire suitable for general moves

Medium vans suit flat moves, small furniture collections, or transporting household appliances. They offer more space without being too difficult to manoeuvre in London traffic. Many people find this size a practical balance between capacity and ease of use.

Luton box van hire for large removals

Larger Luton vans are perfect for house moves or transporting bulky furniture. They provide a spacious loading area, often with a tail lift that makes loading easier. This option is ideal if you need to move large items in one trip rather than multiple smaller journeys.

How much does van hire cost in London

Daily hire rates vary depending on the size of the van and the hire company. Smaller vans can start at around £50 per day, while larger models may cost significantly more. Booking early often allows you to secure lower prices and avoid last-minute increases. Our rates start at £58 plus VAT for small van hire, feel free to check our full van hire price list.  

Weekend or peak-day rates are usually higher due to increased demand, however we do not increase the price here at Reward Van Hire. On the contrary, customers looking to hire for a weekend receive discounted rates. If you have a flexible schedule, consider booking on weekdays for better value and availability. Longer-term rentals may also provide discounted daily rates compared to short-term hires.

It is important to consider additional costs such as mileage charges (we offer unlimited miles with Reward Van Hire however excluding Minibuses and Crew Vans), fuel, and optional extras. Insurance add-ons or late return penalties can increase the total cost. Planning ahead and understanding the full pricing structure will help you avoid surprises.

Insurance and damage cover explained

Basic insurance is usually included with most van hire agreements. However, the excess fee in case of damage can be very high, often several hundred pounds. Understanding this cost is essential before signing the hire agreement.

Optional collision damage waiver can reduce your liability in the event of an accident. This additional cover usually costs extra but can give peace of mind, especially when driving a larger van for the first time. Many people find the extra protection worth the small increase in daily hire cost.

Always inspect the van carefully before driving it away from the depot. Take photographs of any existing scratches, dents, or marks and ensure they are noted on the hire sheet. This will protect you from being held responsible for damage that was already there.

Top tips for driving a van in London traffic

Planning your route in advance can save a great deal of time and stress. Many areas of central London have restrictions, congestion charges, or narrow roads that may not be suitable for larger vans. Using a navigation or checking maps before you set off is always worthwhile.

Vans are larger and heavier than cars, which means extra care is needed when using mirrors and checking blind spots. Always give yourself more room when changing lanes or turning. Taking the time to adjust mirrors properly before driving is essential for safety.

Patience will help you stay safe on the road.

London traffic can be slow and unpredictable, so allow more time than you think you will need. Vans take longer to accelerate and stop, so driving smoothly and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles is important. Patience will help you stay safe on the road.

Loading and securing your belongings safely

When loading the van, place the heaviest items on the floor close to the bulkhead. This prevents them from moving around and keeps the weight balanced. Stacking lighter items on top will reduce the risk of crushing or damage.

Always use ropes, straps, or bungee cords to secure furniture and boxes. This stops items from sliding around when braking or cornering. Properly securing your load also reduces the chance of damage to the van interior.

Try to distribute weight evenly across the van rather than on one side. This keeps the vehicle stable and makes it safer to drive. A balanced load will also make steering and braking more predictable.

Parking rules and congestion charges to watch out for

Parking in central London can be challenging, especially for larger vehicles. Many areas have loading restrictions or require payment through parking meters and mobile apps. It is best to research suitable parking spaces before your journey.

The London Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees may apply depending on where and when you drive. These charges can significantly add to the cost of your hire. Always check the latest rules on Transport for London’s website to avoid unexpected fines.

Local councils often provide information on van-friendly parking bays and loading zones. Planning your stops around these areas will save time and reduce stress. Knowing where you can legally park is essential in avoiding penalties.

Returning your van without extra charges

Most hire agreements require you to return the van with the same amount of fuel it had at pick-up. Filling the tank before you return it avoids costly refuelling fees charged by the hire company. Always keep the receipt as proof if needed.

Cleaning out the van is a simple way to avoid additional charges. Remove any rubbish, packing materials, or mud before handing it back. A quick tidy-up will ensure that you are not billed for cleaning services.

Returning the van on time is just as important as returning it in good condition. Many companies charge an additional full day’s hire fee if you are late, even by a small margin. Allow extra time for traffic or unexpected delays to make sure you meet the deadline.

Final checklist for a stress-free van hire

1. Confirm your booking details, including van size, pick-up time, and return deadline

2. Ensure you have a full UK driving licence held for at least 12 months (check provider requirements for larger vans)

3. Bring proof of address dated within the last three months (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)

4. Have a valid payment card for the deposit and rental fee

5. Choose the right van size based on the amount and type of items you need to transport

6. Check the hire company’s insurance coverage and consider optional collision damage waiver if needed

7. Inspect the van carefully before driving away and take photographs of any existing scratches, dents, or marks

8. Plan your route in advance to avoid restricted roads, congestion charges, or narrow streets

9. Research suitable parking spaces, loading zones, and any applicable fees like Congestion Charge or ULEZ

10. Make a plan for loading and securing your belongings safely, ensuring weight is balanced and items are strapped down

Got a question?

At Reward Van Hire we are always happy to help and answer all your queries regarding your move in London. Just give us a call no strings attached on 020 7284 2703.