June 05, 2019

Driving A Van For The First Time? Here Are Some Tips

The ease of driving a van is now comparable to that of the family car, but the reputation of big slow vehicles with no power steering has stuck, and can often put people off renting or buying a van for jobs that require them. That’s where this guide comes in.

Here are 10 tips that will make sure that when you embark on your van hire experience, it will be stress free and enjoyable.

driving a van, top tips

1) Size is the main thing on most drivers minds when they consider hiring a van. The vehicle may be a bit bigger than you are used to, and so parking and turning will require extra room and careful attention, and the height of the van should also be considered when approaching low bridges and multi-storey car parks.

2) When picking up your van it is important to listen to any instructions you are given about the vehicle. It’s better to pay attention and ask questions now than to be caught in the dark with no clue how to turn the lights on, open the fuel filler cap or worse!

3) The features of a van can be very different than those of your car; the lack of a rear view mirror for example. If this is the case, it is especially important to correctly adjust and make use of your side mirrors. Make sure to be cautious of sudden stops or reductions in speed, and always be conscious of what may be behind you!

4) It may sound simple, but remember to lock the back door before driving off, and make sure you know how to do it properly. All too often the contents of a van will spill out onto the road due to an improperly locked door: don’t let it be you!

5) The last thing you want is your cargo rolling around in the back when taking corners, so make sure it is secured safely. Bungee chords and cable ties can work wonders.

6) Centre the weight in the back of the van; put heavy items down first, and the lighter ones on top. Make sure any especially heavy items are placed on the floor in the centre of your van and are secure from moving around. This will ensure a low centre of gravity to keep your van stable.

7) Wearing a seatbelt is an essential. Just like in a car you must wear your seatbelt, they are there for a reason, and might just save your life.

8) Be over cautious. If you aren’t sure if you can change lanes or pull out safely on a busy road, then don’t. A van is less responsive than a car, so you can’t get away with as much!

9) Check all tyre pressures before driving a van. Remember that your van needs a higher tyre pressure than a car due to the weight of the load, so check the manufacturer’s instructions, or ask your supplier for the recommended pressures, and always check pressures before beginning a journey.

10) Use common sense! This is the most important tip – if it doesn’t seem sensible, it probably isn’t!

van hire locations