Large vehicles, be it a bus or a lorry, have been extremely useful to us for a long time, even before Mad Max made riding a truck cool. However, according to Statitsa, bus and coach transportation in the UK was the lowest in a long time in 2019. This follows a steady decline visible in this industry for over a decade. After all, we have so many other options now.
But Uber seems cool only until you need to move a piano or go watch a football match with a fan club. This article is here to make sure you don’t find yourself clueless when you inevitably face these situations. It will act as a guide for when you need to hire a large vehicle.
Driving License Requirements
When it comes to renting a large vehicle, one of the most important things to consider is who will be behind the wheel. Different rental companies may have different requirements, but generally speaking, you’ll need a valid driver’s license that is recognized in the country where you’ll be renting the vehicle.
If you plan on driving it yourself, you should know that driving a vehicle that seats more than 8 people or weighs more than 3.5 tonnes generally requires a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). However, according to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency, one does not need a CPC if the driving is for a non-commercial purpose.
It’s also important to check if there are any restrictions based on your driving history. For example, some rental companies may require a minimum number of years of driving experience before renting out a vehicle to you.
So before you book your rental, be sure to check with the company about their driver’s license requirements. This will help ensure that you have a smooth and safe experience on the road. And if you’re traveling with a group, make sure everyone who plans to drive meets the requirements before you leave.
Insurance Coverage
When renting a large vehicle, insurance coverage is another critical consideration. You want to make sure that you’re protected in the event of an accident or any other unforeseen circumstances. The rental company may offer insurance coverage, but it’s important to carefully review the policy to see what it covers and if there are any restrictions or additional costs.
It’s also a good idea to check with your own auto insurance provider to see if your policy covers rental vehicles. Some policies may provide coverage for rentals, but others may not, so it’s best to double-check before you rent. By being proactive about insurance coverage, you can protect yourself and your belongings while on the road.
Capacity & Comfort
It’s important to consider the capacity and comfort of the vehicle you’ll be driving. People generally tend to hire bigger vehicles for long-distance driving. If you were to drive from, say, Middlesbrough to Brighton, which would be a drive of over 300 miles, you would want to make sure that the vehicle you’re driving is both comfortable and has the amenities you would need for a journey like that.
While most buses are large enough to fit 50-60 people easily, there are also smaller options available. A service like Minibus Hire in Middlesbrough allows you the choice of getting a vehicle that can seat 8-9 people to one that seats 59 people and almost every number in between. Take the time to evaluate your needs, so you don’t have to face problems on the road.
Comfort is also a key factor, especially if you’ll be on the road for a long time. You want to make sure that the seats are comfortable, that there’s enough legroom and that the climate control system works well. Some vehicles may also come with additional features, such as a DVD player or a Wi-Fi system, that can enhance your travel experience.
Maintenance & Reliability
When renting a large vehicle, you want to make sure that it’s well-maintained and reliable. After all, you don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road with a breakdown. Before you rent a vehicle, it’s a good idea to ask the rental company about their maintenance and inspection policies.
It’s also important to check the vehicle before you drive it away. Make sure to inspect it for any visible damage or mechanical issues and report them to the rental company. Take note of the fuel and oil levels and tire pressure to ensure that the vehicle is ready for the road.
Indeed offers a detailed checklist for a ‘walk around’ inspection of a truck. But it applies to any large vehicle. It includes checking the tire pressure, fluid levels, brake, airbag, lights, and seatbelts, among other things, before you cast off.
Fuel Efficiency
You want to consider the cost of fuel when hiring a large vehicle. Nimblefins notes that the average miles per gallon (MPG) for a car in the UK is 38.8 miles. However, a 53-seater Volvo B11R, a bus commonly used for long-distance travel, only has an MPG of around 12 miles. This extra cost can really add up if you’re traveling long distances.
It’s also important to consider the cost of the rental itself, as well as any taxes or fees that may apply. It’s a good idea to compare prices across different rental companies to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
So when choosing a large vehicle to rent, take the time to consider both fuel efficiency and cost. By doing so, you can minimize your expenses and ensure that you have a smooth, cost-effective rental experience.
Parking & Regulations
When renting a large vehicle, it’s important to think about parking and regulations. You’ll want to make sure that you have enough space to park the vehicle when you’re not using it and that you’re in compliance with any local parking regulations.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the regulations for driving a large vehicle, including height and weight restrictions, as well as any special permits or licenses that may be required.
By being mindful of parking and regulations, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free rental experience. So take the time to research the local parking regulations and familiarize yourself with the rules for driving a large vehicle before you hit the road.
Whether you have a regular driving license or a commercial license, always make sure you comply with the relevant regulations and have the necessary insurance coverage.
By doing your research, reading the rental agreement carefully, and following some tips for a smooth rental experience, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable rental experience when you’re behind the wheel of a large vehicle.
