There is no single answer, because it depends on many factors. Although at first glance it may seem that any van will do, the truth is that the choice of vehicle will make the difference between a smooth and orderly move... or an odyssey of to-ing and fro-ing that ends up exhausting you.
Throughout this article we explore the different types of vehicles commonly used for removals, their pros and cons, and what to consider before making a decision.
Types of vehicles available
Small vans
They are the first to come to mind when you think of moving house. They usually have a capacity of between 6 and 9 cubic metres, just enough for small flat changes: students moving house, single people, or couples with few things.
The good thing is that they are easy to drive (a B licence is sufficient), they are fuel efficient and they move well in central areas and on narrow streets. The limit? Space. If you're carrying large furniture or appliances, you'll have to make more than one trip.
Medium or large vans
When the move involves more than just boxes and a bed, L2H2 or L3H2 vans are often the most popular. Their capacity ranges from 11 to 15 m³, ideal for one or two-room flats.
They offer a good combination: sufficient space and still manageable. They can also be driven with a B licence, but be careful not to exceed the maximum load and the speed restrictions, which are lower for these vehicles than for a normal car.
Light trucks with bodywork
We are talking big words here. If you need to move the entire contents of a medium-sized home, this is probably the most convenient option. They have a volume of between 18 and 20 m³ and, as they have an enclosed box and lifting platform, they make loading and unloading much easier.
They can be driven with a car licence as long as they do not exceed the maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg. However, as you approach this limit, the actual payload drops. So, even if it looks like you can fit everything, you have to keep an eye on the weight.
Heavy trucks
For large moves - a whole house, an office with several workstations or a lot of furniture - we are already in the realm of lorries weighing more than 3,500 kg. In this case, a C licence is required, or a specialised company must be hired.
The advantage is obvious: you carry everything in one trip. But it also involves higher costs and certain logistical complications, especially in areas with limited access or traffic restrictions.
What to consider when making the right choice
How much volume will you move
This point is key. If you're not sure how much space your stuff takes up, there are online calculators to help you estimate. A small studio may need 8m³; a full house easily exceeds 20m³.
Where housing is located
Accessibility makes a difference. If the house is on a narrow street or in an area with traffic restrictions, a compact van will save you headaches. In some municipalities you even have to ask permission to park a removal van on public roads.
How much you can spend
Renting a small van costs significantly less than a flatbed truck. But if you have to make several trips, between fuel, time and effort, it may not be as worthwhile as you thought.
What type of licence do you have?
This point is easy to overlook, but very important. With a B licence you can drive up to 3,500 kg. If the vehicle you need is heavier than that, then you will only be able to move it if you have a C licence, or you will have to leave it in the hands of professionals.
Pros and cons, depending on the vehicle type
Small van
Advantages: Ideal for small moves
Disadvantages: Low volume, requires repeated trips
Medium or large van
Advantages: Good capacity, easy to manoeuvre
Disadvantages: Requires more parking space and consumes more fuel.
Light truck with bodywork
Advantages: Large volume, effortless loading platform
Disadvantages: More expensive to rent and limited payload
Heavy truck
Advantages: All in one trip
Disadvantages: Needs a special licence and can cause problems in the city.
Practical tips on how to avoid being overtaken by the move
- Book early. The end of the month and summer months fill up fast. Anticipating saves you surprises.
- Measure your furniture. Make sure it will fit in the vehicle. Sometimes what seems obvious is not so obvious.
- Control the weight. It's not enough to fit things in; if you go over the weight allowance, you can get into serious trouble.
- Protect everything well. Use straps, blankets and anchors. You will prevent anything from moving or being damaged along the way.
- Find out about local regulations. In some cities you can't just park a big truck wherever you want.
- Time yourself well. Driving a van is not the same as driving a lorry. The speed limit changes and the journey may be longer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the appropriate vehicle for moving if I live in a studio apartment?
A small or medium van (6 to 9 m³) is usually sufficient.
Can I drive a removal van with a B licence?
Yes, provided that the total weight does not exceed 3,500 kg.
What if my flat is in a street in the historic centre?
In that case a small van is most practical. You may have to make more trips, but you will avoid impossible manoeuvres.
What is the advantage of the platform lift?
It makes it much easier to move heavy objects such as fridges or washing machines, without straining the back or relying on extra help.
Storage Rooms for Rent in Palma de Mallorca
Once you know which vehicle is the right one for your move, there is another important decision: what to do with the things you are not taking with you to your new home. You may not have enough space, or you may simply want to store them for a while.
At Palma Storage rooms we offer options for storage room rentals in Palma de Mallorca designed for that. Spaces of different sizes, safe, accessible and with the flexibility you need in the middle of a move.
If you're planning to move house, or just need to free up some space, drop us a line. We're sure we'll find a storage room that suits you and makes everything so much easier.
