Top 10 Tips for First-Time Van Drivers in the UK

By Motus Rentals Team · 2025-02-24 · 7 min read

Never driven a van before? Don't worry. These ten practical tips will have you driving confidently on UK roads from day one.

First Time Behind the Wheel of a Van?

Millions of people hire a van in the UK every year, and a large proportion have never driven anything bigger than a family car. The good news: it's not nearly as difficult as it looks. Here are our top 10 tips.

1. Adjust All Mirrors Before You Move

Vans have no rear window — you rely entirely on your wing mirrors. Before you pull away, spend two minutes adjusting both mirrors until you can see the full side of the van and the road behind.

2. Allow Extra Width

A medium van is approximately 2 metres wide — around 50cm wider than a typical hatchback. Be conscious of tight country lanes, multi-storey car parks (check height too!) and narrow side streets.

3. Give Yourself Extra Stopping Distance

A loaded van takes significantly longer to stop than a car. Follow the 3-second rule minimum in good conditions, and double it in wet weather.

4. Watch Your Height

Our medium and large vans are typically 2.2–2.5 metres tall. That rules out many car parks (most are 1.9–2.0m). Always check height barriers before entering.

5. Check the Load Before Every Journey

A shifting load is a serious safety hazard. Use the load liner, ensure heavy items are secured, and don't exceed the van's payload limit (stated on the van door).

6. Take Wide Turns

Vans have a larger turning circle. When turning at junctions, swing wide early — particularly when turning left — to avoid clipping the kerb.

7. Reverse Slowly and Use a Banksman

When possible, ask someone to guide you when reversing. If alone, get out and walk around the van before reversing into any tight spot.

8. Plan Your Fuel Stops

Most of our vans run on diesel. Check the fuel gauge before departure and plan stops on longer journeys — you don't want to run low with a full load.

9. Don't Rush

The single biggest cause of hire van incidents is rushing. Give yourself extra time, drive at a sensible speed, and take breaks on long journeys.

10. Know Your Breakdown Cover

All Motus Rentals vehicles include UK roadside assistance. Save our number in your phone before you set off: 0333 054 0441.

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Our Milton Keynes and Northampton branches have vans ready for same-day collection. [Book online now →](/#book)