First time renting a van?

First time renting a van? Here’s what you should know

Renting a van for the first time can feel like a big task, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Whether you need a van for a move, a DIY project, or just transporting something big, the process is easy to handle once you know what to expect. If you’re looking for a hire van rental, here’s a simple guide to help you navigate through booking, picking up, and returning the van.

1. Booking your hire van rental

The first step in the process is booking your hire van rental. You can usually do this online or over the phone. It’s a good idea to book ahead of time, especially if you’re renting during a busy season, like weekends or holidays.

When booking, here’s what you’ll need to consider:

• Van size: Make sure you pick the right size van for your plans. If you’re moving furniture, a larger van might be best. If you’re just transporting a few items, a smaller van will do the trick.
• Rental duration: Think about how long you’ll need the van. If it’s a one-day job, a day rental might be perfect. However, if you need it for a few days or more, make sure to check rental options for longer periods.
• Pick-up and drop-off location: Choose a location that’s convenient for you. Some rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off at various places, so pick the one that works best for you. You might even find a company that offers a hire van rental with a one-way option if you’re moving across town or need to leave the van in a different spot.

2. What you need to rent a van

Before heading to pick up your hire van rental, make sure you have everything you need:

• Driver’s license: You’ll need a valid driver’s license to rent a van. If you have a full car license, you should be good to go, as most vans can be driven with a standard car license. However, if you're renting a larger van or truck, make sure to check if a special license is required.
• Payment method: Most companies will require a credit card or debit card for payment, so be sure to have one handy. It’s also a good idea to check if you need to pay a deposit, which some companies ask for in case of any damage.
• Insurance: Some rental companies offer optional insurance. If you’re not sure if your regular car insurance covers rental vans, it’s worth checking. If not, you may want to purchase insurance from the rental company.

3. Picking up your hire van rental

When you go to pick up your hire van rental, make sure to bring your driver’s license, payment method, and any paperwork or reservation details you might have. The process is usually pretty simple:

• Check the van: Before you drive off, inspect the van for any existing damage. Take note of any scratches, dents, or issues, and let us know.
• Ask about features: If you’re not familiar with driving vans, ask the rental company about any special features or instructions. For example, larger vans might be a bit tricky to park, so it’s good to know the size and any other features, like a loading ramp or additional mirrors.
• Get your keys: Once everything checks out, you’ll get the keys to your hire van rental and be ready to go. Some companies even offer a keyless entry option, so it’s always worth asking about that if you prefer to skip the hassle of dealing with physical keys.

4. Using your hire van rental

Now that you’ve got your van, it’s time to use it. Whether you’re moving heavy furniture or transporting materials for a project, make sure you load your items securely. Here are a few tips:

• Loading: Pack the van carefully. Heavy items should go at the bottom, with lighter ones stacked on top. If you’re transporting something fragile, make sure it’s well-padded and secured with ropes or straps.
• Driving: If this is your first time driving a van, take it slow until you get used to the size. Vans can feel bigger than cars, and it might take a little bit to get used to the wider turning radius and extra height. If you’re not used to driving a larger vehicle, keep an eye out for low bridges or tight parking spots.
• Fuel: Most hire van rental companies will give you a full tank of fuel, but you’ll need to return it with the same amount. Make sure to fill up the van before dropping it off, so you don’t get charged for refuelling.

5. Returning the van

When you’re done with your hire van rental, you’ll need to return it. Here's how to make sure you do it right:

• Fuel up: As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to return the van with a full tank. If you forget to fill it up, you might be charged for refuelling at a higher price.
• Check the van: Just like when you picked it up, inspect the van before returning it. Make sure you haven’t left any personal items behind, and check for any new damage that may have occurred during your rental period. If you find any issues, be sure to report them to the rental company right away.
• Return on time: Don’t forget to return the van on time to avoid extra charges. If you need the van for an extra day or two, give the rental company a call to extend your rental period.

6. Final Steps

Once you’ve returned the van, the company will check it over to ensure everything is in good condition. If all looks good, you’ll be all set. 

Renting a van for the first time doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you need a hire van rental for moving, a DIY project, or transporting a big load, the process is pretty simple once you know what to expect. Just remember to book in advance, check the van before and after use, and drive carefully.

With these tips, you’ll feel confident about your hire van rental and be able to get the job done with ease.