When it comes to hiring a van for transportation needs, proper preparation and knowledge can make all the difference between a smooth experience and a potentially stressful one.

Whether you’re moving house, embarking on a road trip, or transporting goods for your business, having a comprehensive checklist for collecting a hire van is essential.

1. Booking Confirmation and Identification

Before your job commences, ensure you have your booking confirmation handy, either in print or digital format. Additionally, bring a valid driver’s license and any other identification documents required. Without these, you may not be able to collect the van.

2. Vehicle Requirements and Pre-Inspection

Review your transportation needs and ensure the hired van meets your specific requirements. Check the van’s size, load capacity, and features to match it with your intended use.

When collecting the van, conduct a thorough pre-inspection of the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Look for any existing damages or issues and report them to your account manager to avoid any potential disputes during the return process.

3. Insurance Coverage

Discuss the insurance options available and choose the one that best suits your needs. It’s essential to have appropriate insurance coverage to protect yourself and the van in case of any unforeseen events or accidents during the hire period.

4. Mileage Limit and Additional Charges

If you are hiring your vehicle for an extended period of time, it’s worth checking if there’s a mileage limit for the hire period.

Your job may involve you to use it more than expected and exceeding the mileage limit may result in additional charges depending on your agreement. Also, if you think you may need to go over your rental period, take note of any late return charges so you can factor this into your budget accordingly.

5. Roadside Assistance

Ensure you know who to contact should you require roadside assistance in case of emergencies or breakdowns during your journey. Having roadside assistance can provide peace of mind and quick assistance if you encounter any issues on the road.

6. Van Operation Instructions

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the van’s controls and operation before you leave the hire location. If you’re not familiar with driving a van, or a specific type of van model, our team should be able to advise you on any specific tips or instructions that are worth considering.

7. Necessary Equipment and Tools

Depending on your specific needs, you may require additional equipment or tools, such as straps for securing your load, blankets for protecting fragile items, or a GPS for navigation. Make sure you have these items ready before collecting the van.

8. Return Date and Location

Double-check the return date and location provided in your agreement. Ensure you’re aware of any drop-off procedures and adhere to the agreed return time to avoid additional charges.

Hire a Van in Rotherham

If you’re looking to hire a van in Rotherham, Nottingham, Sheffield or other parts of the UK where we operate, don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

We can help advise you on other things to check and consider prior to your vane rental, as well as make sure you are aware of key van features, insurance coverage, fuel policy, and any additional charges.