Hiring a van for the first time can feel a little daunting, especially if you’re more used to driving a car. Whether you're moving house, collecting furniture, or transporting goods for work, a hire van can be a practical, flexible option. At Skipton Self Drive, we want to help you feel confident from the moment you collect your keys, so here are our top tips for first-time van hirers.
1. Choose the Right Van for the Job
Before booking, think carefully about what you need to transport. Are you moving bulky furniture, tools, or multiple boxes? A small panel van might be perfect for light jobs, while a long wheelbase van offers more space for larger loads. If you’re not sure what size you need, give us a call. Our team will be happy to recommend the best option for your needs.
2. Check Your Licence and Insurance Requirements
In the UK, most standard driving licences (category B) allow you to drive a van up to 3,500kg. This covers the majority of our hire vans, but it's always worth double-checking your licence if you’re unsure.
.png)
At Skipton Self Drive, insurance is included as part of your rental, but you may want to ask about optional excess reduction for extra peace of mind. We’ll walk you through everything before you drive away.
3. Get to Know the Vehicle Before You Drive Off
Vans sit higher and handle differently compared to cars. Before setting off, take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with the vehicle:
- Adjust your seat and mirrors for comfort and visibility
- Note the location of controls like lights, wipers, and indicators
- Check the fuel type and how to open the filler cap
- Take note of the van’s height and length - important for low bridges and tight spaces
If anything feels unclear, don’t hesitate to ask us for a quick demo before you leave.
4. Loading the Van Safely and Effectively
Ever played Tetris? Now’s the chance to play the real-life version. When loading a van, try to place heavier items on the floor and towards the bottom end of the van, and secure them using straps or bungee cords if possible. This helps keep the van stable while driving. If you need any straps, we can supply these for the period of your hire. Avoid overloading the vehicle or stacking items too high, as this can affect balance and visibility.
It’s a good idea to load in reverse order - with the last items to go into the van being the first things you need when you arrive.
5. Be Aware of Different Speed Limits and Driving Behaviour
Vans are subject to different speed limits than cars in the UK:
- 50mph on single carriageways
- 60mph on dual carriageways
- 70mph on motorways
Vans take longer to stop than cars, especially when fully loaded, so leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front. Corners may also require wider turning so take your time and don’t feel pressured by other road users.
6. Plan Your Route with Van-Friendly Navigation
If you're travelling through rural parts of the UK (like around Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales), it’s wise to plan your journey with the van’s dimensions in mind. Avoid routes with low bridges, narrow lanes, or tight bends, and consider using a sat nav or app that includes vehicle height and width restrictions.
If possible, reccy your parking and unloading points in advance, especially if you're heading into a busy town centre or work site.
7. Return the Van Clean and On Time
While you don’t need to return the van with a full tank of fuel at Skipton Self Drive, we do ask that the vehicle is returned in a clean and tidy condition.
Returning the van on time helps avoid extra charges and ensures a smooth experience for everyone. If you’re running late, just give us a call as we’ll always try to accommodate where possible.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a van doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and a little confidence, it can be a smooth and straightforward experience. At Skipton Self Drive, we’re here to make sure your journey, whether for business or pleasure, goes off without a hitch. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team.
Book your next vehicle today by contacting our team on 01756 792911 or book online here
