Hiring a Van for Removals
Booking vans for your removal needs is indeed an effective way to keep costs down. If you hire a van this purpose, you only have to consider a few things to make sure that you obtain the maximum value for your money. The van’s size and capacity, for example, are the most essential points. Be sure to look at the different specifications of the vans to suit your particular needs. This way, you don’t have to pay for anything that you don’t require. Always plan ahead. You surely don’t want to pay over the odds. On the other hand, you also don’t want to get a van that’s under the capacity of the objects you have to move. The outline below covers all the important things to consider for hiring van removals. Keep in mind that you don’t have to carry a special driving license to deal with many of the van hire companies in operation today.
1. How much do you have to move?
This is question vital. You have to figure out, or at least make a good estimate, of the space that your items will take. This is an important detail as you perform a search for the right van and book cheap van hire. You are sure to pay more money than necessary if you booked a van that too big for your needs. You don’t want plenty of space. You need just the right size for the items that you have to pack in. But you don’t want to rent a van that is way too small also because if you do, you won’t be able to fit all the objects for removal in there and would have to make a second trip. That would mean added petrol costs plus the risk returning the van later than agreed. That’s added charges for you. The possibility of wear and tear is also there.
2. Research all the rental companies in your locality
Once you are certain about the van that you need, finding the company to lend you that vehicle is the next thing to do. Talk to as many companies as you need and ask for quotes from each of them. Van companies offer a variety of vehicles and they all differ in size and specification. Dig deeper until you come up with the best deal. Be sure to read the policies of the companies because they differ each time. The points to check are insurances, additional charges, and possible restrictions.
3. Thoroughly make a run-through of the van before leaving the courtyard
Check and double check your rented vehicle – both in and out – for possible damages before driving out of the rental company’s car park. You should take note of the smallest damage as you might be charged for that when you return the vehicle. Put into writing the dents and scratches that you find and the company should agree with that. This way, you won’t be blamed for anything you didn’t damage.
4. Drive the van like it should
Driving a van is way different from driving a car. Keep in mind that you are driving a large vehicle here. And you’re moving heavy objects with it. The size of the van itself may take you off. Just remember that the vehicle you’re driving is much wider, a little bigger, and way heavier. Those things should always be considered when making a turn or stepping on the gas. Estimate the spaces well – from the road to the parking lot that is – so you can avoid unnecessary accidents. Always watch out for narrow gaps and low bridges. You could get scraped if you drive too close to them. Any damage to rented van would mean added charges.
On the other hand though, driving vans has its perks too. For starters, your position is higher than that of a car. As such, you will be able to see the road and all things around you so much better. Other drivers will see you quite easily too. Also, most modern vans are equipped with power steering. This makes maneuvering so much easier than you think it is. With all these considered, driving a van shouldn’t be intimidating. All you need is some common sense and a clear mind. And more importantly, a representative of the van hire company should always be there to give you tips.
On the last note, be sure to pack all your items well prior to the removal. Breakable objects and personal effects should be placed in an intact container. After moving all by yourself, you will surely feel an elusive sense of achievement not only in completing the task but saving a lot of money in the process as well.
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