Moving to university accommodation is expensive. Most students have a very tight budget. Many people think that hiring a van and moving everything in yourself is the best way to save cash. Is that always true? Sometimes, hidden costs make a self move quite pricey. You should think about the real costs to weigh up whether a removals firm or a rental van is right for you.
Expenses of Moving With a Rental Van
Renting a van seems cheap. You see a low daily rate online, but then you start to discover some extra costs.
One thing you need to check is the fuel price. Petrol and diesel cost a lot. If you move from the Wirral to another part of the country, fuel can really start to add up. Plus don’t forget, a large transit van uses more fuel than a regular car.
Common Extra Fees for Van Hire
Rental companies often add surcharges. These fees can make the total price go up fast:
- Young driver surcharges apply if you are under 25.
- Van hire excess insurance protects you from big bills if you scrape the van.
- Daily fees for extra drivers add up if a friend helps you drive.
It can be tricky to drive a big vehicle in busy cities like Liverpool or Chester. For example, Luton vans are tall and wide. It’s easy to hit a low bridge. If you take a bump, you can lose your entire deposit, making the “cheap” van option, very expensive.
What About Professional Movers?
The idea of a removal firm might be that it costs too much. But it’s worth considering still. The pro’s bring their own large vans and equipment. They know how to pack boxes so nothing breaks. They offer a fixed price for the whole job. Plus, it’s a real hands off approach. You don’t need to worry about extra fuel costs or insurance fees.
Consider these points:
- The pro's have all the right ties and blankets to keep your gear safe.
- You don't have to drive a scary, large van through tight city streets.
- They often carry your heavy boxes up three flights of stairs into uni halls.
- Many firms offer student discount removals if you ask.
And it’s great that you don’t have to find a parking space for a giant van. Parking in central Liverpool or near Chester Rows is very hard. A proper removals firm will know the best spots to pull up. They work fast and get the job done. This saves you time and stress.
Comparing the Real Price of Your Moving Day
The best choice depends on how much stuff you have – a few bags or a whole flat share. If you only have three boxes, a small car might work. But if you have a bed and a desk, you need a bigger van.
How to Pick the Cheapest Option
Before you decide, look at these factors:
- The distance between your old home and your new uni accommodation.
- Your age and whether you have to pay a young driver fee.
- The amount of heavy furniture, like wardrobes or kitchen appliances, you own.
- How much time you have to return the rental van before the shop closes.
You should get a few removal firm quotes. Compare them to the total cost of a rental van plus fuel and insurance. Sometimes the price gap is very small.
Making Your Move Easy
Moving house should be an exciting time for every student. You do not want to start your term with a huge bill.
- It's a good plan to book your move early. This way, you get the best rates.
- Always check the small print on any contract. Look for things like mileage limits or cleaning fees.
You want a smooth day, free of any nasty surprises. Think about using a firm that knows your region well. Moved Removals supports home moves across Wirral, Liverpool, Chester, Cheshire and the wider North West and handles everything from flat moves to large house relocations. You can get a clear price and avoid the stress of driving a rental van yourself.
