Europcar’s unique January sale is still running, and you could save up to 20% on van hire until for bookings made by 31^st January 2013 for reservations up to 31^st August 2013, excluding the Easter period.

To mark its January sale, Europcar has published a set of driving and loading tips for van hire customers. Here at vanrental.co.uk, we’ve always been focused on helping first-time van hire customers navigate the confusing world of vans — and Europcar UK Group Managing Director Ken McCall clearly shares our aims:

“… we know that many of our customers rarely drive a van, we’re offering some useful tips for loading and driving vans so that it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.”

Driving a van

Driving a van for the first time can be daunting, but its doesn’t need to be traumatic! Check out our guide to driving a van for the first time, or take a look at Europcar’s tips below, if you are about to become a white van man (or woman!) for the first time:

1. Vans are bigger than cars – Be aware of the width, length and height of the vehicle when hiring a van, especially if you’re not used to driving one.
2.  Take corners slowly – it is possible for a heavy loads to move around if you take the corner too fast.
3. Space for corners – Remember that larger vans need more room to turn so give yourself plenty of time and space when taking corners.
4. Stopping distance – Remember that the larger or heavier the vehicle, the longer it takes to stop, especially in icy or wet conditions.
5. Blind side – Watch out for cyclists and bikers who might be tempted to overtake on the blind side.

Loading a van or moving house?

One of the best reasons to hire a van is to save money on the cost of moving house — I know I’ve done it a few times. Of course, packing and loading your own stuff into a van means that you are responsible if anything gets damaged, so it’s important to take care as you do it.

Luckily, we’ve produced a guide to DIY removals that covers everything you need to know, from choosing the right size van through to packing and loading your stuff so it all stays safe while you’re on the road. Click here for our DIY removals guide, or take a look at Europcar’s tips for loading a van:

1. Start loading your items at the front of the van and work your way to the back.
2. Spread the load evenly across the base, uneven loads can have a massive effect on a van’s stability.
3. Keep all items stacked as tightly as possible to keep everything from shifting during the drive.
4. When loading a van, place heavy items on the floor of the vehicle, and plastic and lighter things on top of the heavier ones.
5. You may have to take apart things like tables and desks in order to load everything tightly and to ensure safe transport.
6. Be careful not to scoot or drag furniture in the van as damage may occur to sofas, table legs and dresser bottoms.
7. When lifting a heavy load bend your legs not your back.

Click here to compare van hire prices, or click here to head directly to Europcar’s website.