Why Choose a Van for International Moves and Use?
When relocating from the UK to any other country, hiring a van for international use can be practical and more cost-effective than other methods, such as hiring a full-service or even freight or air shipping.
- Flexibility – It gives you the independence and freedom to set the schedule and route that you want.
- Cheaper – Without paying full services from moving companies, you avoid extra costs. If you’re moving a small number of belongings, you also
- Simplifies logistics – Through the Eurotunnel or via ferry, crossing borders is straightforward. Many van hire companies also help with customs paperwork, which can help you ease the process.
- Control over the process – For those who prefer a DIY move, hiring an international van allows you to keep track of everything, from packing your items to unloading them at your new destination
Estimate the Volume of Your MoveYou can also hire a man and a van for international moving services. This combines the cost-effectiveness and the convenience of someone professional who can handle the process.
Companies Offering International Van Services
This company will allow you to rent a dedicated truck:
8.8
97
Rye
4 ratings as Efficient
4 ratings as "Efficient"
The following offer man and van services in the UK and Europe:
Sirelo Top Mover
9.6
284
Folkestone
63 ratings as Good Communication
63 ratings as "Good Communication"
9.7
100
Wimbledon
1 ratings as Good Packing
1 ratings as "Good Packing"
Request Free Moving QuotesMoving Abroad: Renting vs. Driving Yourself a Van
Let’s break down the characteristics of each option so you can make an informed decision for your international move:
Renting a Van
An experienced mover in driving long distances
For heavy or fragile items that require professional handling
Saves time and effort
It can involve higher costs
Driving Yourself
Cheaper than hiring mover services
You have full control over the move
It can be physically demanding (especially in long-distance travels)
Expect hidden costs such as fuel or tolls
Depending on your needs, confidence and circumstances, one option may be better than the other.
International Van Hire One-way
The most convenient option when moving abroad is hiring a van one-way. Van hire companies create networks across countries, partnering with depots and spaces in other locations to save you the drive back to the UK.
How does it work?
- Research and book an international van hire company specialising in one-way services (e.g. Europcar, Sixt, Avis)
- Load your items and household goods into the van
- Drive to your destination
- Unload your items and drop the van at the partner location indicated.
How to Rent or Hire a Van for Moving Abroad
- Determine your needs. What size do you need? How many km (on average) are you going to cover? Will you hire a professional driver or drive yourself?
- Research van hire companies for moving abroad. Consider their reputation, services offered, insurance policies and drop-off flexibility.
- Understand the rental requirements. Companies can set conditions such as age restrictions, having a valid driving license, leaving a deposit and providing you with insurance coverage.
- Hire the van. Set the rental period and decide if you need any extra service.
- Plan your move and start travelling.
Compare Costs: Removal Van Quotes
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.
Average Prices of Hiring a Van for an International Move
To give an example, a move from the UK to Europe could cost around £900 – £1,200, counting a rental period from 3 to 7 days.
Van Size | Average Rental Cost |
Small (e.g. Ford Transit) | £80 to £150 / day |
Medium (e.g. Luton style) | £100 and £180 / day |
Large (e.g. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) | £150 to £300 / day |
Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates. To get accurate costs, request quotes from van hire moving companies.
Van Hire from the UK to Europe
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.