Understanding Van Dimensions
Hiring a van, especially if it’s larger than what you’re accustomed to driving, necessitates a keen awareness of its dimensions for a safe journey. Be mindful of potential obstacles such as low bridges, restricted-width roads, drive-through lanes, and low-hanging branches. Maintaining a wider berth than usual ensures you navigate safely around any challenges on either side.
Mirror Adjustments
With no rear-view mirror or rear windows, door mirrors become crucial for observing your surroundings. Ensure they’re adjusted correctly before setting off to provide clear visibility to your sides and behind. Need assistance with this? We’re here to help!
Loading Wisely
The vehicle will have a specified maximum Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), indicating the utmost weight it can legally and safely carry. Exceeding this limit is not only unlawful but also hazardous. Ensure the load is secure and evenly distributed to avoid any imbalance during transit. Straps and blankets, available for hire, can assist in securing your items, with heavier pieces best placed against the bulkhead.
Reversing
Given the restricted view when reversing, employing a guide is advisable. When alone, take an extra moment to survey the area, adjust mirrors, and maneuver gradually to safeguard against any unseen obstacles.
Speed & Braking
Our fleet is routinely and meticulously maintained. However, be mindful that a van, especially when loaded, will behave differently in terms of acceleration and braking compared to a standard car. Adopt cautious cornering, maintain an extended gap from the vehicle ahead, and adhere to the speed limits, which are different from a car and are displayed within the van for your convenience.
Insurance & Documentation
Your hire includes insurance, subject to an excess (typically £250, though variations may apply based on your profile). The documents we require are mandated by our insurance provider, with no room for deviation on our part.
Journey Planning
Minimize distractions by planning your route and employing a reliable GPS system. For those using our taller vehicles, such as the Luton, ensure your route avoids low bridges and narrow lanes. Utilizing a route planning tool designed for commercial vehicles may prove beneficial.
Rest & Fatigue Management
Regular breaks are paramount, especially on lengthy journeys and when piloting an unfamiliar vehicle. These pauses ensure your focus remains sharp, safeguarding you and your cargo.
Legal Compliance
Stay informed about relevant rules, like those concerning GVW and speed limits. Be vigilant about road signs indicating vehicle restrictions and potential parking limitations. While this guide cannot comprehensively cover all applicable regulations, maintaining alertness will serve you well.
Security
Opt for well-lit areas when parking the van unattended for extensive periods and consider positioning the loading doors against a wall to inhibit unauthorized access. Vans can be appealing to thieves, so adopting preventative measures to secure your items is prudent.
This guide aims to assist first-timers but isn’t exhaustive. Approach your journey with confidence, paired with an extra dose of vigilance, and you’re likely to enjoy a successful trip. Good luck!
