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Practical Tips for Moving to the UK (London) on Your Own: Van Rental and Fuel

This guide offers practical advice regarding van rental and fuel costs if you choose to move your belongings to London yourself using a rented van.

1. Van Rental

You can rent a suitable van for international travel to the UK from most reputable van rental companies. It is crucial to inform the rental company in advance that you intend to travel to the UK, as specific insurance coverage or permissions are usually required.

Daily rental rates for vans typically range between 1,500 and 2,200 CZK (approx. 60–90 EUR), depending on the van size and the rental company.

While it might be theoretically possible to complete the entire trip (driving to London, loading/unloading, and returning) in as little as 3 days, this is a very ambitious timeframe for a solo trip over such a distance. A more realistic and less stressful duration might be 4-5 days, allowing for sufficient rest and flexibility. Based on a 3-day rental, the minimum van cost would be approximately 6,600 CZK (approx. 250 EUR). Remember to factor in the actual time you will need.

2. Fuel

To potentially save on fuel costs, consider that diesel fuel is often cheaper when purchased away from major highways.

Fuel prices vary significantly between countries (such as the Czech Republic, Germany, France, and the UK) and also differ between individual fuel stations. It is highly recommended to check current fuel prices using online resources or mobile apps before and during your journey to find the best places to refuel. (Specific petrol station recommendations have been removed as prices constantly change).

Your overall fuel costs will primarily be determined by the van’s fuel consumption and the prevailing prices along your route.

Typical estimated fuel consumption for different van sizes:

• 10 m³ van: around 8.5 liters per 100 km
• 15 m³ van: around 10 liters per 100 km
• 22 m³ van: around 14 liters per 100 km

For a round trip of approximately 2,500 km (e.g., Prague to London and back) with a 15 m³ van, you would need roughly 250 litres of fuel. At an estimated average price (e.g., 48 CZK/litre or equivalent), this could cost around 12,000 CZK (approx. 450 EUR). Please note this is an estimate; actual costs will vary based on current prices and your driving style.

Important Note on Weight Limits: Be aware that larger vans, such as those around 17m³ or more, have a maximum permissible weight (Gross Vehicle Weight). Due to their large volume, it is particularly easy to accidentally exceed the weight limit in these larger vans by simply filling them up. Overloading is dangerous, illegal, and can lead to fines. Always check the van’s payload capacity and ensure you do not exceed it.

3) Tunnel vs. Ferry Crossing

Choosing between the Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) and a ferry for your crossing to the UK involves considering cost, journey time, and flexibility.

Consider the Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) if:

• You can book your trip well in advance.
• You are travelling outside of peak times (such as holidays or busy evening/morning hours), as prices are often lower then.
• You prefer a faster crossing and want to minimise travel time.
• You are not travelling during a major holiday season, when prices for all crossings significantly increase.

Consider a Ferry if:

• You need more flexibility and might have to purchase your ticket close to the day of travel (though booking in advance is still recommended for better prices).
• You appreciate a break from driving during the journey across the Channel.
• You are travelling with an extra trailer, as this can sometimes be easier or potentially cheaper via ferry depending on the operator and booking.

Cost and Booking:

The cost for a van crossing (round trip from France to the UK) varies greatly depending on vehicle size, time of travel, demand, and how far in advance you book. While prices can occasionally be found as low as approximately 2,600 CZK (approx. 100 EUR) for a round trip, this is often an exceptional off-peak rate for smaller vehicles, and you should generally expect to pay significantly more for a van, especially at popular times.

Booking your ticket in advance, particularly online, is almost always cheaper than buying a ticket on the day of travel or directly at the port/terminal. Prices can increase substantially for last-minute bookings or during peak periods.

During holiday periods, prices for both the tunnel and ferries can be two or three times higher than standard rates.

Operators:

The main ferry operators on routes from France to the UK include P&O Ferries, DFDS, and Irish Ferries. It is advisable to compare prices and schedules from these companies.

Other Practical Notes:

• The Eurotunnel crossing itself is faster (around 35 minutes) compared to ferry crossings (typically 1.5 to 2 hours or more). However, factor in check-in and waiting times for both.
• Regardless of your choice, you will undergo border control and customs checks upon arrival in the UK. Random checks are possible and can add up to 30 minutes or more to your overall journey time.
• Tip for potentially reducing costs: Consider checking relevant online communities or groups (for example, on social media) if anyone needs items transported along your route to or from the UK. This could potentially help offset some of your travel costs if you can transport items for others.

When passing Germeny you Must fill kontrolbuch in English

How to get on train in France Calais with van wath video

Get of the train in Folkestone UK

Roads and tunnel charges and emission zones in UK

There is one toll motorway (highway) in the UK and about 12 toll bridges and tunnels.
The charge is usually up to 5£, and it is not worthwhile to try and avoid them.
You are most likely to have to pay for using the: Dartford Crossing
Dartford Crossing step by step guide 

Registration for the LEZ and ULEZ zones London

There are two emission zones in London. LEZ, or the Low Emission Zone, covers almost the entire area within the circle surrounded by M25.
It is important to register in advance. The form says it may take up to 10 workdays to process, but it usually only takes 2 or 3.
All vans registered outside the UK have to register in advance. If you do not register in advance, you will pay 200 pounds per day for entry.
However, all newer vans meet the emission limits. All you need to do is to register using the technical license to your car, and you will avoid both charges.
If your car meets the limits, but you did not register in time, you will have to pay the charge. (In most cases, you will be allowed to register later and once you pay the fine, they will return the full sum, but we do not recommend this method.) The minimum fine is 500£.
ULEZ, or the Ultra Low Emission Zone, is a zone in the very center of London, proximity 20 km around the city center.

Detailed registration instructions for the LEZ/ULEZ London

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/compliance-registration/before-you-start

From 1.1.2022 you are redirected to EPCplc to register there. (non-uk registed cars)
From 1.7.2022 there are no discount for vans registered outside UK to enter ULEZ you need to pay 12,5 Pounds a day
Offline registration via this pdf form. LEZ registration form for Uk and non-uk registration cars/vans download  you can checked your status online.
Online form for registration via post = Online form lez registration