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Discover whether international moving van hire is the right solution for you. We’ll break down the different options available, moving companies, costs, and how the process works.
One-way van hire is the most convenient option when moving abroad. You simply drop it off in your destination country. Van hire companies operate by partnering with depots in other locations to save you the drive back to the UK.
How does it work?
Driving a van for your move offers complete flexibility. You can choose the right vehicle size, pack your belongings, and load or unload on your own schedule. This option is ideal for small moves or for those who want full control.
International man with a van services are a practical option for those who don’t want to drive. It includes a van along with a professional driver who can help you with packing, unpacking, and loading or unloading your belongings. This option is ideal for small international moves that don’t require hiring a full removals company.
Summary: Hiring a van for international moves from UK can be flexible, cost-effective, and a practical alternative to a full-service removal or shipping.
Consider hiring a man and a van service for international moving. This offers a balance between affordability and convenience, with a professional handling transport.
Find below some of the best companies offering van hire moving services from the UK to Europe and abroad.
This company will allow you to rent a dedicated truck:
The following offer man and van services in the UK and Europe:
For most house moves, the best van to hire for international removals is a Luton van, as it typically can fit the volume of a 2–3-bedroom house. For smaller moves, a medium-sized van can be enough, which is also cheaper and easier to drive.
The most popular choice is a Luton van, available in 3.5 tonne and 7.5 tonne versions. Here’s what you need to know about the load volume and what fits inside:
| Van Type | Load Volume | Internal Size (L × W × H) | Payload |
| 3.5T Luton Van | 17–20 m³ | ~4.1m × 2.1m × 2.1m | 900–1,200 kg |
| 7.5T Luton Van | 30+ m³ | ~6.5m × 2.3m × 2.3m | 3,000–3,500 kg |
Small vans cost around £80–£150/day, medium vans £100–£180/day, and large vans £150–£300/day. A full move to Europe using a hired van typically ranges from £900 to £1,200 for 3–7 days.
| Van Size | Average Rental Cost |
| Small (e.g. Ford Transit) | £80 to £150 / day |
| Medium (e.g. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) | £100 and £180 / day |
| Large (e.g. Luton style) | £150 to £300 / day |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. To get accurate costs, request quotes from van hire moving companies.
Expect to pay around £800–£1,400 depending on where you’re moving. Ireland tends to be the cheapest, while Spain is the most expensive due to distance and fuel costs.
| Destination | Estimated Cost Range | Typical Rental Duration |
| France | £800 – £1,100 | 3–5 days |
| Germany | £950 – £1,250 | 4–6 days |
| Spain | £1,100 – £1,400 | 5–7 days |
| Ireland | £700 – £950 | 2–4 days |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. To get accurate costs, request quotes from van hire moving companies.
Factors such as the distance, van size, rental period, or additional services can directly influence the final price for your move. Requesting quotes from multiple companies can help you find the best offer.
Let’s break down the characteristics of each option so you can make an informed decision for your international move:
If you’re moving to a European country, hiring a van can often be more cost-effective and convenient than transporting your belongings in a container. Many van rental companies offer cross-border rentals, making it easy to access various cities across Europe.
The UK and Europe have well-connected road networks, so if you choose to self-drive, you can travel smoothly. However, be sure to clarify the insurance coverage and fulfil all necessary rental requirements to avoid any unexpected issues.
Here are some of the most frequently used relocation routes with international van hire:
