Common Van Hire Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Hiring a van can make moving house, transporting goods, or completing a DIY project far easier—but only if you get the details right. Many first-time renters run into avoidable issues that cost time, money, and unnecessary stress. If you’re planning to hire from Easihire Preston, here are the common van hire mistakes to watch out for—and how to avoid them.
Underestimating the Size You Need
One of the most frequent mistakes is choosing a van that’s too small. It might seem like a cost-saving decision, but multiple trips can quickly cancel out any savings—not to mention the extra time and fuel.
How to avoid it:
Take stock of everything you need to move before booking. Large furniture, appliances, and bulky items take up more space than expected. When in doubt, it’s often better to go slightly bigger. Our staff at Easihire Preston, can advise you on the best size based on your needs.
Ignoring Insurance Details
Insurance is one area many people overlook until it’s too late. Not fully understanding your coverage could leave you liable for unexpected costs if something goes wrong.
How to avoid it:
Always read the insurance terms carefully. Check what’s included, what excess you’d need to pay, and whether any additional cover is available. If anything is unclear, ask questions before you drive away. It’s far better to spend a few extra minutes understanding your policy than face a surprise bill later.
Leaving Booking Too Late
Van hire demand can spike at certain times—especially weekends, bank holidays, and the end of the month. Leaving your booking until the last minute may mean limited availability or higher prices.
How to avoid it:
Plan ahead and book as early as possible. This not only gives you more choice in vehicle size but can also help you secure better rates. If your moving date is fixed, don’t take chances—reserve your van in advance. At Easihire Preston, we will even move your hire date free of charge, should anything change at your end.
Improper Loading and Packing
Poorly loaded vans can lead to damaged goods, unsafe driving conditions, or even injury. Throwing everything in without a plan might seem quicker, but it often causes problems down the line.
How to avoid it:
Load heavier items first and place them at the bottom, close to the van’s bulkhead. Distribute weight evenly and secure items with straps if available. Fragile items should be wrapped and placed carefully to avoid shifting during transit. Taking a bit of extra time to load properly can make a big difference to both safety and peace of mind.
Returning the Van Late
It’s easy to underestimate how long your move or job will take. Returning the van late can result in additional charges, which can quickly add up.
How to avoid it:
Be realistic about your schedule and allow extra time for traffic, delays, or unexpected issues. If you think you might need the van longer, discuss flexible hire options upfront. At Easihire Preston, we offer extensions—but it’s always best to arrange this in advance rather than after the fact.
Final Thoughts
Van hire is a convenient and cost-effective solution for many situations, but small mistakes can turn a simple job into a stressful experience. By choosing the right size, understanding your insurance, booking early, loading carefully, and managing your time effectively, you can ensure everything runs smoothly.
With a bit of preparation and the right support from your van hire supplier, your van hire experience can be straightforward and hassle-free—leaving you free to focus on the task at hand.
Call Easihire Preston – 01772 886 888
Email Easihire Preston – preston@easihire.co.uk
WhatsApp Easihire Preston – 07784 918 025
Call in and see us: 165 Walker Street, Preston, PR1 2RR