Small Van Hire Across the UK

To hire a van in the UK, you'll need a valid UK or EU driving licence (held for at least 12 months), proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months), and a valid credit or debit card in the driver's name. Some providers may also require additional identification such as a passport.

Most van hire companies in the UK require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may require drivers to be 23 or 25. Young driver surcharges may apply for drivers under 25. Always check with your specific hire company for their age requirements.

Basic insurance is typically included in the rental price, covering third-party liability and collision damage waiver (CDW). However, you'll usually have an excess (the amount you'd pay in case of damage). You can often purchase additional insurance to reduce or eliminate this excess.

Small vans typically measure around 4-4.5m long with a load space of 3-4 cubic metres. Perfect for carrying up to 1 tonne (1000kg) of cargo. The exact dimensions vary by make and model, so always check the specific vehicle details when booking.

Ideal for small deliveries, courier work, light removals, and city driving. Popular models include Ford Transit Connect, Volkswagen Caddy, and Citroen Berlingo. As a general guide, you can fit the contents of a studio or 1-bedroom flat in a small van, 1-2 bedrooms in a medium van, 2-3 bedrooms in a large van, and 3-4 bedrooms in a Luton van.

No, a standard UK car driving licence (Category B) is sufficient for driving small vans up to 3.5 tonnes. Most hire vans fall within this weight limit. If you passed your test before 1997, you may be able to drive slightly heavier vehicles. Always check your licence entitlements.

Small vans are very easy to drive, similar to a large car. Easy to park in standard parking spaces and navigate through narrow city streets. Take time to adjust mirrors properly and be aware of the van's height and length when maneuvering.

Small vans typically achieve 40-50 MPG depending on driving conditions and load. Diesel vans are more fuel-efficient than petrol. Fuel consumption decreases when the van is fully loaded or driven in heavy traffic.

Yes, weekend van hire is very popular. Most companies offer special weekend rates (typically Friday afternoon to Monday morning). Small vans are perfect for small moves and deliveries. Book in advance as weekends are busy, especially during summer months.