What You Need to Know About Vehicle Hire

When it comes to hiring a van, not every company makes it easy and clear, so we’ve put together some of the most common questions we receive to make it that bit easier. Here they are.

 

Are there any age limits to hiring a vehicle?

In short, yes. Hirers need to be between 21 - 75. If you are under 25 you would be unable to hire a minibus, MPV or 7.5T vehicle. For cars and vans you must have held a clean licence for at least two years if aged between 21 and 24. We cannot allow people over 75 to hire from us. Under 25’s also are not permitted to take a vehicle overseas, and for anyone else wishing to travel abroad with a vehicle, restrictions do apply. The vehicle must also be fully covered for European insurance and breakdown cover, and we would have to quote separately for this. This is only available for a selection of vehicles.

 

Can I hire a vehicle if I have points or endorsements on my licence?

3 points for an SP30 is acceptable. You would need to call us to notify us if you have any other points in advance of your hire as this may affect your ability to hire. If aged between 21-22, licences must be clear of any points or convictions.

 

What documents are required?

In short, we need three documents from you. These are:

  • Your photocard driving licence.
  • Recent proof of address (within the last 3 months)
  • Your driving licence check code which can be found here.

We may however need further documentation. If you have a non photo card driving licence we will need to see a valid passport. If you hold a non-UK driving licence we need to be notified a day in advance of vehicle hire. Recent proof of address needs to be either a utility bill (energy or water companies) or a bank statement.

 

Would I be liable for any damage?

You would be liable for any negligent damage yes. This includes punctures, kerbed wheels or tyres, damage to upholstery, cigarette burns, or damage to aerials and mirrors. If you fail to heed warning lights and gauges you would be responsible for any mechanical repair costs as well as damage above windscreen height.

 

Would I be liable for any insurance excess?

For theft and damage your excess liability is £1,000. Non-UK licence holders have an excess up to £2,000 and for drivers between 21-24 the excess is £1,500. We do offer excess protection which can be reduce the excess to £300. Terms and costs apply.

 

What payment methods do you accept?

A credit or debit card which has to be in the driver's name. We don't accept American Express, Switch or Visa Electron cards. We also do not accept cash or cheques.

 

What do I need to know about deposits?

If you take out our excess protection, we take a deposit of £200. Without this the deposit would be £500. As long as on return the fuel has been fully topped up and there is no damage after inspection your full deposit will be refunded. This can take 2-5 working days depending on who you bank with.

 

Are there any hidden costs?

Your vehicle rental cost includes fully comprehensive insurance for one driver, unlimited mileage, breakdown cover and VAT. The only additional cost is your deposit, providing there are no reasons to make any deductions, this is fully refundable. If you wish to have an additional driver, you can insure them for an extra £5 per day.

 

Can I return the vehicle if your office is closed?

Yes we have a 24 hour drop off facility. You can return anytime, as long as it is within your agreed rental period. If returning out of hours the vehicle does need to be locked and your keys dropped off in our secure key drop box. Please note however that until the vehicle has been inspected during working hours the vehicle is still your responsibility.

 

Is there anything prohibiting me from driving a vehicle?

Some vehicles cannot be driven on a standard licence. If you wish to drive a 17 seat minibus you need a category D1 on your licence or a C1 if you wish to drive a 7.5T wagon.

 

Do any of your vehicles have tow bars?

Yes, our Transit Tipper, SWB (short wheel based) vans & 4x4's have tow bars. Please call or email our office to request these.

 

Where do I collect my hired vehicle?

Collections and returns are to our Skipton site only. We are situated a five minute walk from the train station. We can collect you from there at an agreed time. We also have a number of car parking spaces which you are welcome to leave your vehicle at for the rental period however this is offered as first come first served. There is additional on street parking available - vehicles are left at your own risk.

 

Do you provide accessories such as rope and blankets for moving furniture for example?

Yes, these items are free of charge and available on request subject to availability. We also supply sack trucks if needed. Please note we do not supply child seats.

 

Do you have any automatic vehicles on your fleet?

Yes, we have medium, large and 4x4 cars available with automatic transmission.

 

Do you have a cancellation policy?

Yes. If you cancel within 48 hours of your rental agreement you will be charged. Within 24 hours this would be a full day's rental. Between 24-48 hours this would be £20. If we receive no notice of cancellation, you will be charged for one day's rental.

 

We hope that this answers some of the most common rental questions. If not, more information is available on our website or our dedicated team is available to answer any questions you may have on 01756 792911.