Europcar reveals rise in van rentals

Europcar, the UK’s leading vehicle rental business and the largest supplier of vans for daily rental has revealed a marked 15% increase in van rentals to consumers year on year. Whether it’s for a trip to the local dump, storage facilities, to collect or deliver online purchases, or for home moves, the rise in van rentals could be attributed to a growing ‘thriftiness’ amongst UK consumers as the credit crunch continues to bite.

To support this demand, Europcar has extended its fleet to include 50% more tail lifts – vital for the lone driver needing to transport items to or from home without help. And to encourage safe driving, Europcar is offering its top tips for van driving:

Europcar’s Top Tips for Van Driving

Before starting your trip:

• Check your mirrors are all set correctly so that you can see as much as the road as possible.

• Ask someone to guide you out if you need to back out of a space.

• Make sure the doors are securely locked at the back or on the side of the vehicle.

• Check with the rental company the height of the vehicle.

When out on the road:

• Remember you will need a bigger braking distance as the vehicle will me much heavier than a normal car – so don’t get too close to the vehicle in front.

• You will need to take turns and corners much slower than you would in a car.

• Check your route for bridges and overpasses – you may find a route you use regularly in a car is no longer accessible due to the clearance height.

• Be aware of trees which may be overhanging the road.

• Ensure any loose loads are properly secured.

• Ensure that you signal well in advance of making a manoeuvre – and make changes slowly.

Catriona Lougher, Marketing Director for Europcar said: “With the slowdown in the economy, homeowners need to watch their pockets. The increase in van rentals certainly seems to indicate a savvy attitude to this slowdown as consumers look for more cost-effective means to chuck out the chintz, do some home improvements or simply move unwanted furniture or belongings into storage. Renting a van for a few hours is often far more cost-effective than having items delivered and with the popularity of sales on auction sites, it’s a great way to transport a ‘bargain’ home.”