When it comes to hiring the right vehicle for a job in Tunbridge Wells, many people face the same question: Should I go for a tipper van or a flatbed?
Both options are highly useful, but the right choice depends on the type of work you’re doing and the materials you need to move.
At Hire2You, we make van hire easy, with affordable rates, no deposit options, and a wide fleet available for same-day hire across Kent. In this guide, we’ll help you understand the differences between tipper vans and flatbeds so you can make the best choice for your project.
What Is a Tipper Van?
A tipper van is designed for heavy-duty work. Its hydraulic lifting bed allows you to quickly unload loose materials by tipping the load out of the back. This makes it a favourite among builders, landscapers, and anyone dealing with rubble, soil, sand, or garden waste.
Common uses of tipper hire in Tunbridge Wells include:
- Building site waste clearance
- Landscaping jobs involving soil and turf
- Moving heavy or loose materials
- Domestic DIY projects with rubble or garden debris
Tipper vans save time, reduce manual labour, and keep jobs moving efficiently.
What Is a Flatbed Van?
A flatbed van, on the other hand, has an open back with no sides or roof. This makes it ideal for carrying oversized, bulky, or awkwardly shaped loads that wouldn’t fit in a regular van.
Flatbed hire in Tunbridge Wells is commonly used for:
- Transporting long timber, pipes, or scaffolding
- Delivering pallets of bricks or building materials
- Moving large furniture or awkwardly shaped household items
- Tradesmen who need easy side or forklift access
Flatbeds offer maximum loading flexibility and are the go-to choice for loads that need strapping down rather than containing.
Tipper Vans vs. Flatbeds: Key Differences
If you’re not sure which option suits your needs best, it helps to compare how tipper vans and flatbeds perform in different situations.
Load Type and Practical Use
- Tipper vans are perfect for loose, heavy loads such as soil, rubble, or garden waste.
- Flatbeds are designed for bulky or oversized loads that don’t fit into standard vans.
Ease of Loading and Unloading
- Tipper vans save time with hydraulic unloading, no heavy lifting required.
- Flatbeds allow easy loading from any side, especially useful with forklifts.
Safety and Load Security
- Tipper vans have higher sides to keep materials contained securely.
- Flatbeds require straps and tie-downs but can handle longer or awkward items safely when secured correctly.
Cost Efficiency
Both options are competitively priced at Hire2You, with daily hire starting from as little as £79/day. Unlike many hire companies, we offer no deposit, no credit check, and no hidden fees. That means you can choose the vehicle that’s right for you without worrying about upfront costs.
When to Choose Tipper Hire in Tunbridge Wells
A tipper van is the best option when you’re dealing with waste, soil, rubble, or other heavy, loose materials. They’re especially popular among:
- Builders who need to clear sites quickly
- Landscapers who regularly move earth, turf, or gravel
- DIY enthusiasts tackling garden or home renovation projects
If saving time and effort on unloading is a priority, a tipper van is the way to go.
When to Choose Flatbed Hire in Tunbridge Wells
Flatbed hire is ideal when your priority is space and flexibility. They work best for:
- Tradesmen moving timber, scaffolding, or oversized tools
- Delivery drivers handling pallets of stock or bulky materials
- Home movers with furniture too big for standard vans
If your load is awkward in shape or needs to be strapped down securely, a flatbed will make the job much easier.
Why Tunbridge Wells Customers Choose Hire2You
At Hire2You, we’re proud to be a trusted, local vehicle hire company serving Tunbridge Wells and the wider Kent area. Customers choose us because we make the process simple and affordable:
- Same-day hire available – drive away today.
- No deposit required – keep your cash in your pocket.
- No credit checks – fast and hassle-free.
- Wide fleet available – from tipper vans and flatbeds to Lutons, long wheelbase vans, and cars.
We work with tradesmen, businesses, movers, and everyday people who need a reliable hire vehicle without the stress.
How to Book Your Tipper or Flatbed Hire in Tunbridge Wells
Booking with Hire2You is quick and straightforward:
- Get in touch – Call us or book online.
- Provide documents – You’ll just need your driving licence, NI Number and two proofs of address (or a passport and proof of address).
- Pick up and drive away – Choose same-day hire or book in advance.
We offer daily, weekly, and long-term hire options to fit your needs.
Choosing between a tipper van and a flatbed depends on the type of job you need to get done.
- Go for a tipper if you’re clearing waste, rubble, or soil.
- Opt for a flatbed if you’re moving long, oversized, or bulky items.
If you are ready to book in your tipper or flatbed hire in Tunbridge Wells? Give Hire2You a call and our friendly team will guide you to the right choice.