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First-Time Van Hire? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

 

Hiring a van for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming — especially if you're not sure which size you need, what documents to bring, or how the process works. Whether you're moving house, picking up furniture, or transporting tools for work, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before hiring a van.

At JS Van Hire, we help customers across Chorley, Leyland, Adlington, Euxton, and surrounding areas find the right van quickly and affordably. This article covers all the essentials so you can hire with confidence.

1. Choosing the Right Size Van

One of the most common questions first-time customers ask is:
“Which van size do I need?”

Here’s a simple guide:

Small / Short Wheelbase (SWB) Van

Ideal for:

  • Flat-pack furniture

  • Small house moves

  • Boxes and general items

  • Tradespeople carrying tools

Medium Van

Great for:

  • Small sofas

  • Wardrobes

  • Fridges / appliances

  • 1–2 rooms worth of items

Long Wheelbase (LWB) Van

Perfect if you need more height or length:

  • Large sofas

  • Beds & mattresses

  • Office desks

  • Multiple appliances

Luton Box Van (Tail Lift)

Best for full house moves or bulky items.

Tip: If you’re unsure, go slightly bigger — it reduces the number of trips and saves time and fuel.

2. What You Need to Bring on the Day

Hiring a van is simple, but you’ll need a few documents:

Mandatory

  • Driving licence (full UK licence)

  • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement dated within 90 days)

  • Licence check code from GOV.UK

  • Payment card (debit/credit)

Helpful to Have

  • Your National Insurance number (to generate your licence check code)

  • Your booking confirmation

If you're unsure about anything, JS Van Hire will guide you through it step-by-step.

3. How Long Can You Hire a Van For?

At JS Van Hire, you can hire a van for:

  • Full day

  • Weekend

  • Multiple days

  • Weekly hire

This gives you flexibility depending on your job or move.

4. Insurance and Excess Explained Simply

Van hire insurance can sound complicated, but it’s actually straightforward.

Your hire will normally include:

  • Insurance cover

  • Breakdown cover

  • Mileage allowance

What about excess?

The “excess” is the amount you’re responsible for if there’s damage.
Many customers choose to reduce their excess for peace of mind.

Good news: You’ll always be told everything upfront — no surprises.

5. A Quick Safety Check Before You Drive Off

Before you leave, take a minute to check:

  • Mirrors are adjusted

  • You know the height of the van

  • Handbrake and controls feel comfortable

  • The load is secure and evenly spread

  • You understand how to use any tail lift (if applicable)

JS Van Hire will show you everything you need — especially useful if it’s your first time driving a larger vehicle.

6. Tips for Driving a Van Safely

Even if you’re an experienced driver, a van handles differently from a car.

Keep these tips in mind:

Braking

Vans are heavier, so allow more stopping distance.

Turning

Take wider angles, especially around tight corners.

Speed

Remember that vans often have different speed limits on:

  • A-roads

  • Dual carriageways

  • Motorways

Parking

Use mirrors, move slowly, and get a spotter if possible.

Height Awareness

Watch for:

  • Car park barriers

  • Low bridges

  • Tree branches

  • Drive-throughs

Many first-time hirers forget about height — don’t be one of them!

7. Returning the Van

Before returning your van:

  • Remove all personal belongings

  • Bring the fuel back as agreed (usually like-for-like)

  • Check for any minor scuffs

  • Arrive on time to avoid late fees

The return process is quick and simple — you’re usually in and out within minutes.

8. Why Choose JS Van Hire?

JS Van Hire is trusted by customers across Chorley and surrounding areas because:

  • ✔ Clear, upfront pricing

  • ✔ Clean, reliable vans

  • ✔ Local service with expert advice

  • ✔ Flexible hire options

  • ✔ Great customer reviews

  • ✔ Easy pick-up location

  • ✔ Ideal for both personal and business use

We make van hire simple, affordable, and stress-free — especially for first-time hirers.

Ready to Book Your First Van Hire?

If you’re planning a move, collecting an item, or transporting equipment, we’re here to help you choose the perfect van.

📞 Call JS Van Hire:  01257 290237