What’s different about driving a van?
Driving a van for the first time? It might feel daunting at first, but with the right preparation, you can be on the road in no time. Whether you need to move some furniture, make a delivery or just need more load space, this guide will help boost your confidence when it comes to driving a van.
Although the majority of modern vans do drive like cars – they’re just bigger and you’ll need to look out for larger parking spaces, take corners slower and wider etc – there are many things to consider to keep both yourself and other road users safe while you drive a van.
Plan and prepare for your first van trip
As you climb into the van, the first thing you notice may be that there’s a different viewpoint due to its height. Set your seat position and mirrors as you would in a car, but don’t forget the van’s lack of a rear-view mirror. Use the side mirrors and familiarise yourself with the controls like locks, lights and wipers.
Take note of the van’s specifications, such as speed limitations or unique handling characteristics. This will help ensure you feel confident and comfortable behind the wheel. You should also practise securing any latches and locks at the back of the van.
Check you have the right licence and van insurance
You can drive a van up to 3,500kg if you have a standard driving licence. You may need to take extra tests if you’re intending to drive a vehicle weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg or want to attach a trailer to your van.
You should check your insurance covers you to drive a van. Van insurance can often be more expensive than car insurance as the vehicles have bigger engines and tend to contain more valuable belongings (which would need to be covered by contents insurance), making them a higher risk
Tempcover’s temporary van insurance can cover you from one hour up to 28 days, with no impact on your existing no claims discount. Short-term van insurance is perfect when you are:
- Borrowing a van from a friend or family member to move house or transfer larger items.
- Test driving a new van.
- Driving away a new van.
We also offer:
Shop around and shop early to find the van insurance policy that suits you best. You can increase your voluntary excess if you want to reduce the premium, although you need to be able to afford to pay this excess in the event of claim, or you could consider temporary van insurance if you only want to pay when you drive.
Your van must also have a valid MOT if it’s over three years old and be taxed if you are driving it on public roads. You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving without vehicle tax. Head to gov.uk to find out when your van’s tax runs out.
While you’re looking at covering your new van, you could start researching and arranging breakdown cover.
Learn how to load the van properly
Speak to any van owner, especially band members, and we’re sure they’ll regale you with tales of ‘van Tetris’ as they recall managing to fit all kinds of weird and wonderful equipment into near-impossible spaces. Although you may not be loading up amps and guitars, you still need to ensure your van’s cargo is stacked safely and securely.
Add heavier items to the lower level and be careful not to overload the van – especially if you want to avoid a fixed penalty notice of between £50 and £300. The amount you’ll have to pay depends on how much over the Gross Van Weight (GVW) your van is. A van that measures over 30% more than the GVW could result in a court summons for the driver.
You could also potentially be charged with dangerous driving for overloading your van, which may end in a prison sentence.
Once you’ve fully loaded the van, you may notice some difference between driving it while it’s empty and once it’s full e.g. the suspension might feel more springy.
Practise driving in the van
Before driving on a public road, you might want to practise getting to grips with the van in a quieter area. Maybe head over to a nearby car park and take your time driving around, getting to grips with six gears, the increased stopping distances and learning how to turn.
You can make note of the blind spots in the van, so you can consider these while out on faster roads.
Change your driving style
It’s important to alter the way you drive while in a van. You’re in a bigger vehicle, which could be more dangerous, and there are a number of hazards to watch out for e.g. height restrictions at bridges, tunnels or while entering car parks.
Bear in mind that the weather can also have an impact on how vans drive. The most important thing is to remain calm and patient while driving.
Take some time to learn the national speed limits for vans:
- 50mph on single carriageways
- 60mph on dual carriageways
Please note that both of these are 10mph lower than the car limit.
Remember to stay calm, patient and friendly while driving a van. You’ll still be able to get where you need to go, it may just take a little more time.
With the right preparation and care – not to mention the right insurance, tax and licence – anyone will be able to confidently drive a van for the first time.
Sources
https://www.vanarama.com/blog/vans/the-risks-of-overloading-a-van
https://www.gov.uk/roadside-vehicle-checks-for-commercial-drivers/fines-penalty-points-sanctions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a special driving licence to drive a van?
A standard driving licence allows you to drive a van that weighs up to 3.500kg. If you want to drive one that weighs more, you may need to take additional van driving tests.
Is van insurance more expensive than car insurance?
Yes, van insurance is often more pricey. This is due to vans having bigger engines and holding more valuable equipment, making them a more likely target for damage or theft. Please note belongings will be covered by contents insurance, not regular van or temporary van insurance.
Are speed limits different for vans?
Yes, many vans have limiters on them and the maximum limit is 50mph on single carriageways and 60mph on dual carriageways (10mph lower than for cars).
How can I tell if my van is overloaded?
An overloaded van can be very dangerous for the driver and others as it will be harder to control and there is an increased chance of an accident. Make a note of the vehicle’s unladen weight (weight when it’s not carrying any passengers) and weigh it at a weighbridge if still unsure. Your suspension may feel lower than normal and start making unusual noises. Braking may also be harder. To avoid overloading, secure the load and avoid carrying any unnecessary items.
