If you’ve relied on Zipvan for quick self-drive trips around London and opened an app recently only to find the service is no longer available, you’re not alone. As searches around Zipvan or Zipcar no longer operating continue to rise across the capital, many Londoners are now looking for a van hire alternative that’s reliable, quick, and cost-effective. 

 

At Pace Van Hire, we’ve supported London movers, businesses, students, and DIYers for years with dependable vehicles and straightforward hire processes without hidden fees or unnecessary admin hassles. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best options and explain why so many customers turn to us when other services fall short.  

 

For quick assistance, contact us today on 020 7277 9853 or email info@pacevanhire.com. 

Van Hire in London: What to Expect 

London’s unique traffic patterns and environmental regulations make van rental different from other cities. With the suspension of many city-based car-share services, people now need a local trusted partner for van hire London solutions that are straightforward and dependable — especially for removals, building projects, student moves and business deliveries.

At Pace Van Hire, we operate from three strategic locations in London: New Cross, Croydon and Eltham, offering a wide range of vans from compact models to long-wheelbase and larger Luton vans — all ready to help you move whatever matters most to you.

Our fleet also complies with the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) standards, meaning you won’t pay extra charges when driving across central London.

Don’t let a closed service slow you down. Book your next van with Pace Van Hire today.

Where to Hire a Van in London 

So, where to hire a van in London now that your Zipvan is not operating? There are several routes you can take: 

Direct Van Hire with a Local Specialist 

Hiring directly from a London-based company like Pace Van Hire means you get personalised service, local support and quick access to vehicles. Unlike some car-sharing services that require complicated memberships or credit checks, we offer: 

 

  • Fixed pricing with VAT included 
  • 24-hour drop-off flexibility 
  • Low insurance excess options 
  • Loyalty credits for repeat customers 

This is why we’ve become a top choice for residents and businesses alike.  

National Rental Chains 

Other van hire companies operate across the UK and in London too. They’re often useful for long-distance trips or corporate hires, though they may involve more paperwork and credit checks. 

Specialist Platforms and Apps 

Peer-to-peer services and comparison platforms exist, but with Zipcar’s closure of its UK operations, these are less common and often operate outside central London.  

Van Rental Alternatives London 

Understanding van rental alternatives London helps when you’re planning a move or delivery that Zipcar previously handled. Here’s how people are adapting: 

Traditional Van Hire Companies 

These remain the most common alternative. They tend to offer a wider range of van sizes and more flexible rental periods, from 1-day hire to long-term use — something a car-sharing fleet couldn’t match. 

One-Man-and-Van Services 

For smaller moves, many Londoners turn to one-man-and-van services. These often include an experienced driver who handles loading and unloading. 

Courier and Delivery Services 

If you’re transporting smaller items and don’t want to drive yourself, couriers and same-day delivery options can be a good fit. 

 Our own customer base has expanded significantly, partly because we offer comprehensive van hire services without the unpredictable pricing often associated with app-based alternatives.

For practical tips, you may also find our guide on the top mistakes to avoid when renting a van in London helpful.  

Looking for Affordable Van Hire Near You? 

A big search trend after Zipcar not operating has been “affordable van hire near me”. With the cost of living and congestion charges increasing across London, affordability matters.  

Our customers frequently say they appreciate the value for money we deliver, especially on short-notice hires. If your move or job requires a clean, reliable van without breaking the bank, we’ll find the right vehicle for you and help you book it with minimal fuss.  

Van Hire Rates Across London Companies 

Prices differ across London van hire companies, but what matters is transparency and predictability. We: 

  • Include VAT in all prices (so what you see is what you pay) 
  • Don’t surprise you with seasonal or peak charges 
  • Offer optional insurance excess reductions 
  • Provide weekend deals and flexible hire durations 

 This helps our customers manage budgets and timelines more effectively — especially when plans change last minute. Our fleet has continued to grow in recent years to meet local demand, with significant investment backing our larger, modern van stock. 

How to Choose the Right Van 

Selecting the correct van size can save you time and money. Consider: 

 

  • Small Van: Ideal for small moves or light deliveries. 
  • Long Wheelbase / Luton: Best for home moves or transporting larger goods. 
  • Crew Cab Tipper: Great for work crews and construction materials. 
  • 9-Seater Minibus: Perfect for group travel when combined with furniture or equipment transport. 

 

Our team is always ready to help you pick the vehicle that fits your needs perfectly. 

Why Our Customers Love Us 

We’ve proudly served hundreds of Londoners with an average 4.8★ rating across Google and Facebook reviews. Customers repeatedly highlight: 

 

  • Exceptional ease of booking 
  • Reliable vehicles 
  • Friendly, helpful staff 
  • Great value compared to alternatives 

 

Many customers specifically mention switching to us when Zipcars have left them unexpectedly car-less for their van hire needs.  

Your Best UK Van Hire Option is Here: Get in Touch 

When the city’s most talked-about van sharing service is no longer available, Londoners need a provider they can rely on. Whether you’re planning a last-minute move, a business delivery or a home project, Pace Van Hire offers: 

 

  • Transparent pricing and no surprises 
  • A wide range of vehicle sizes 
  • Local London locations with flexible pickup and drop-off 
  • No extensive paperwork or credit checks 

 

So if you’re searching where to hire a van in London after your Zipvan isn’t operating, start with a partner who understands your needs and delivers quality service every time. 

Need a van today? Contact us on 020 7277 9853 or email info@pacevanhire.com to arrange your booking.