Hiring a rental van is not only convenient but also a practical, cost-effective solution when you are delivering goods, shifting homes, transporting business materials or just going for a weekend getaway. Before you drive away you should properly go through the rental van checklist to avoid any future problems. Although when you hire from reputable van rental companies then you can remain assured that they will maintain the standards but a quick inspection before driving away ensures your safety.
Particularly while hiring a rental van in Europe there are van hire checklists that include motorway tolls, local road regulations, low emission zones and a lot more. This is a complete guide that includes the 10 most important things that you need to check before driving away in a rental van.
Top 10 Things on the Rental Van Checklist
1. Inspect the Exteriors
As soon as you arrive to hire a van there should be a mandatory rental vehicle inspection where you walk around the vehicle and examine its exterior carefully. You must check for any scratches, paint damage, mirrors, windscreen, lights, dents and bumpers. All sorts of damage should be mentioned in the vehicle condition report. In case you find anything missing in the documents then immediately mention that to the team before you drive away. You should also take photos and make a short video of the van from every angle.
2. Check the Condition of the Tyres
The next most crucial thing that is included in the van hire checklist is the condition of the tyres. There’s no doubt that tyres ensure your safety while maintaining fuel efficiency especially when you are transporting heavy loads. You must check each tyre’s adequate tread depth, tyre pressure, bulges or any cuts or sidewall damage. In case there is a spare wheel then check thoroughly that it is serviceable.
3. Thoroughly Verify Details of Fuel
The safety checks before driving a rental van include verifying the fuel level and type thoroughly. The first thing that must be present on the rental van checklist is the fuel level. You need to check that the fuel level shown on the dashboard is the same as mentioned in the agreement. Also check the type of fuel used like petrol, diesel or any alternative like electric. The rental companies also have their own fuel policy as some may ask you to return the vehicle with the same fuel level while some may provide prepaid fuel options.
4. Properly Check the Lights and Indicators
Before you drive away with the rental van it’s important that you properly check that the lights and indicators of the van are working as this is not only essential for your safety but also an important legal requirement throughout Europe. The rental van checklist includes headlights, rear lights, brake lights, hazard warning lights, reverse lights, fog lights in terms of lights and indicators.
5. Understand the Van’s Controls
It is not just about checking the rental van before driving but you should understand and get familiarized with the van’s controls. Each vehicle is different and has a different set of features. Before you drive away with the rental van it’s advisable to understand the functionality of that van model and get comfortable with the controls.
6. Check the Documentation
As per the rental van checklist you should check all the vehicle documents before leaving the rental location. Firstly all the documents should be present and should be easily accessible. These days many rental companies prefer digital copies so you must know how to access the digital copies in case you need them during the journey. The checklist includes vehicle registration information, rental agreement, accident reporting procedure and many more.
7. Check the Size and Load Capacity of the Van
Whenever you opt for a rental van then you should check its size and load capacity before renting. If you are aware of the measurements then you can avoid the weight restricted roads, narrow streets and height barriers. Besides that if you have plans to transport business cargo then you can distribute the weight evenly to keep it safe.
8. Test the Visibility
The safety checks before driving a rental van also include testing the visibility as that is one of the crucial factors for safe driving. You should first of all adjust the driver’s seat and set both the mirrors. Besides that it is also important to understand the blind spots because vans are larger than the regular passenger cars.
9. Thoroughly Understand Local Rules of Driving
One of the most important van rental tips is that you should thoroughly understand the local road regulations before beginning the journey. There are numerous rules that you must know to remain safe like traffic regulations, speed limits and parking restrictions. Knowing the rules even helps you to avoid unnecessary fines.
10. Review the Rental Agreements
Often the most neglected thing from the rental van checklist guide is thoroughly checking the rental agreement which mentions the fuel policy, mileage, insurance cover, charges and accident reporting process. In case there is difficulty understanding any point you can seek answers for your queries.
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Just spending a few extra minutes going through the rental van checklist would keep you safe on the roads and prevent you from unexpected charges. It’s advisable to go through the documents and agreements and take photos and videos of the vehicle whenever required. Doing so will allow you to have a safe and comfortable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What to check before renting a van?
Before you rent a van you should go through the rental van checklist properly which includes inspecting the exteriors, tyres, fuel, mirrors, documents and most importantly reviewing the rental agreement.
2.Can I sit and check before driving a rental van?
Of course. In fact you should sit and adjust the height of the driver’s seat and mirrors before you drive away with a rental van because becoming familiar with the van aids in smooth driving.
3.What should I do if I find any damage to the rental van?
As soon as you notice any type of damage to the rental van you should inform them immediately and if possible take photographs for reporting.
4.Is the insurance provided with the rental van enough to cover all types of damage?
Usually the standard insurance is provided with the rental van that offers basic cover but certainly there are exclusions that may cost you extra for any such damage.
