Van Hire Loading & Driving Guide

Loading a van safely

• Do not exceed the vehicle payload or maximum permitted weight.
• Put stable heavier items low down and distribute weight sensibly.
• Secure the load so it cannot slide, tip or move under braking or cornering.
• Fill or control gaps where movement could build momentum.
• Keep the loading area clear of people who are not involved.
• Recheck the load after the first part of the journey if appropriate.

For business or complex loads, current DVSA load-securing guidance should be followed.

Driving a hire van for the first time

• Mirrors: set them before moving and use them frequently.
• Width: allow extra room beside parked cars, bollards, cyclists and narrow lanes.
• Length: rear wheels do not follow exactly the same line as the front when turning.
• Height: know the vehicle height before approaching car parks, bridges, canopies or height barriers.
• Braking: leave more space, especially with a loaded vehicle or in poor weather.
• Reversing: get out and look if you are unsure; use a competent guide where appropriate.

Van speed limits in England and Wales

Most vans are treated as goods vehicles and have lower national speed limits than cars. For a goods vehicle not exceeding 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight, GOV.UK currently gives:

Car-derived vans and qualifying dual-purpose vehicles can have different limits. Do not assume a hired Transit follows car limits on single and dual carriageways. Check the current GOV.UK speed-limit guidance.

Driving the Luton van

The Luton van is 6,760mm long, 2,151mm wide and 3,245mm high according to Alco Van Hire’s current technical data. That height is particularly important: check restrictions before entering car parks, covered loading areas, drive-throughs or roads with low bridges.

Allow more room when turning and reversing and remember that the box body can catch crosswinds more than a car.

Using the tail lift

The Alco Van Hire Luton tail lift has a published 450kg capacity. Use it on firm, level ground, keep people clear of moving parts and do not exceed its rated capacity. Make sure the item is stable on the platform and can be controlled safely at both ground and load-floor level.

Important restrictions while using the van

As well as following the law and your rental agreement, there are some important restrictions that help protect you, the vehicle and other road users:

• Only authorised drivers may drive: every driver must be approved and named on the rental agreement.
• Do not overload the van: stay within the vehicle payload, gross vehicle weight and any tail-lift limit.
• Secure the load: goods must not be able to slide, tip or move in a way that could damage the vehicle or endanger anyone.
• Do not carry dangerous or flammable goods: do not use the vehicle to carry prohibited dangerous, toxic, harmful or radioactive materials.
• No smoking or vaping: do not smoke or vape in the vehicle.
• No roof racks, bicycle racks or towing equipment: do not fit or use this equipment unless Alco Van Hire has specifically authorised it in writing. Our current hire policy does not permit towing.
• Use the correct fuel: all current Alco Van Hire vans use diesel. If you put the wrong fuel in, do not start or continue driving the vehicle; contact us immediately.

Breaching the rental terms can affect insurance or CDW protection and may leave you responsible for resulting costs. See Insurance & Excesses and the Rental Agreement Terms & Conditions.