One of the most common questions we get at Hire2You is simple. What size van do I actually need?
Choosing between a short wheelbase, long wheelbase, or Luton van can make the difference between one smooth trip and three frustrating ones. If you are hiring a van in Kent and are unsure which size makes sense, this guide breaks it down clearly.
You can view our full van range here:
https://hire2you.co.uk/van-hire/
Short Wheelbase Vans: Best for Light, Straightforward Jobs
Short wheelbase vans are the most manageable option. They drive more like a large car and are easier to park, especially in town centres or tighter residential roads.
Our SWB vans include the Peugeot Expert and Vauxhall Vivaro. These are ideal for:
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Boxes
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Smaller furniture
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Tools and equipment
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Light trade work
They work best when the load is not too tall or too long. Once wardrobes, sofas, or longer materials are involved, space runs out quickly.
SWB hire starts from £49 per day.
Long Wheelbase Vans: The Most Versatile Option
Long wheelbase vans are the most commonly hired size, and for good reason.
Our LWB option, the Citroën Relay, offers noticeably more length and internal space without stepping up to a full box van. It gives flexibility without feeling oversized.
An LWB van makes sense when:
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You are moving from a small house
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Furniture is involved
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You want fewer trips
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Materials are longer than average
If you are unsure, LWB is usually the safest choice.
LWB hire starts from £69 per day.
Luton Vans: Maximum Space for Bigger Moves
A Luton van has a large box body rather than the traditional van shape, which means much more usable space and stacking height.
Our Luton vans are Renault Masters and are popular for:
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Full house moves
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Shared house relocations
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Bulky furniture
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Large appliances
Many people think a Luton is excessive until they realise how much time it saves. One trip instead of two often justifies the size.
Luton hire starts from £89 per day.
You can view all vehicles and pricing here:
https://hire2you.co.uk/van-hire
How to Decide
If the job is mostly boxes and lighter items, SWB is usually fine.
If you are moving furniture or want breathing room, LWB is safer.
If you want to minimise trips or move a full property, a Luton is normally the smartest option.
The biggest mistake people make is choosing too small to save money. A slightly larger van often reduces fuel, time, and stress.
Hiring the Right Van Across Kent
We are based in Medway and hire across Kent, including Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury, and Sittingbourne. Most customers just need honest advice before booking. If you describe what you are moving, we will point you in the right direction.
You can contact us here:
https://hire2you.co.uk/contact/
Van hire is not about getting the smallest vehicle possible. It is about choosing the one that fits the job properly.
If you are deciding between SWB, LWB, or Luton van hire in Kent, keep it simple. Choose the size that reduces trips and effort. That usually ends up being the better value option.