Van Hire Chipperfield

Start With an Honest Load List

Guessing at capacity is where most hires go wrong. Write down every item you expect to carry, then measure the bulkiest ones. A van that swallows a sofa but not the boxes stacked around it leaves you making extra trips, and on a long hire that frustration repeats week after week.

Weigh Up the Ground at Both Ends

Think about where the van will actually be parked and loaded. A tight driveway, a narrow lane or a slope can rule out a larger vehicle even when the load suggests one. Walking both ends of the journey before choosing saves swapping vehicles midway through a multi-week arrangement.

Be Candid About Who Will Drive

If a colleague, partner or family member might take the wheel during a long hire, say so at the outset. Adding drivers partway through is usually possible, though it depends on the provider and their policies at the time. Declaring everyone upfront keeps the arrangement straightforward and avoids disputes later.

Give the Day a Realistic Allowance and Use the Handover Well

Long hires often begin with a deadline attached, so build in spare time rather than assuming a quick start. At handover, photograph any existing marks, check the fuel level together and ask about routine checks. Ten attentive minutes on day one sets the tone for the weeks that follow.

Common Questions