Sometimes, it is simply practical to rent a van for a move, a delivery, or a weekend, and often, it is also the smartest solution. If you need to transport furniture from A to B, have an important business appointment, or just need more storage space, a small van is exactly the right choice. Renting a small van is a good option because it is flexible, cost-effective, and quickly available, especially if you're in Switzerland. In this article, I will give you an overview of what you should consider to ensure the rental goes smoothly.
Why Rent a Small Van?
The decision to rent a small van offers several advantages, especially if you only need it for a short time. On the one hand, it's often cheaper than driving your own car or using public transport. On the other hand, you benefit from the flexibility that a van provides. Whether it's a move, a large delivery, or simply a trip to the hardware store, you're on the safe side with a van. You have the space you need without having to rent a huge truck, which might even be more of a hindrance in the city. Especially for shorter distances or smaller tasks, the small van is the ideal choice.
Advantages of Renting a Small Van
- Flexibility: You can rent the van for a day, a week, or even longer, depending on what you need.
- Costs: A small van is usually much cheaper than a large truck. Especially if you only need it for a few hours or days, renting is a good solution.
- Convenience: You don't have to worry about maintenance or insurance. You simply return the vehicle when you no longer need it.
- Many Options: Rental companies often have different models – from small, compact vans to slightly larger ones. This ensures you'll find the right vehicle for your needs.
What to Consider When Renting a Small Van
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your rental vehicle. Here are my tips to make the rental process as straightforward as possible:
How Long Do You Need the Van?
Prices vary depending on the rental duration. If you only need the van for one or two days, it might be cheaper to rent it daily. For longer rentals, such as a week, a weekly rate might be more cost-effective. It's worth thinking in advance about how long you really need the vehicle.
The Right Size
Not every small van is the same. Think about what you need to transport. If you have large furniture or many boxes, a larger van might be more practical. If you only need to transport a few items or luggage, a more compact model will suffice. Make sure to inform the rental company accurately so that you get the right vehicle.
Fuel Consumption
Another important factor is fuel consumption. Especially for longer trips, you should pay attention to how much fuel the van consumes. A more fuel-efficient model can save you a lot on fuel costs. Ask the provider in advance about the vehicle's consumption.
The Reputation of the Rental Company
Make sure to rent from a reliable provider. Read reviews online or ask friends for recommendations. A reputable provider ensures that the van is well-maintained and offers good customer service in case of any issues.
Delivery or Pickup
Some providers deliver the van directly to your home, while others require you to pick it up at the rental location. If you opt for delivery, inquire about the costs and whether they fit into your schedule.
How to Get the Best Deal for a Small Van
If you want to save money on renting, a bit of planning is essential. Here are a few tips on how to find the best deal:
Book Early
You often get cheaper prices if you book the van in advance. This can be especially worthwhile during peak times or for a special date.
Compare Prices
Feel free to compare different providers. Not everyone offers the same prices or conditions. Also, consider possible additional fees like delivery or fuel.
Take Advantage of Special Offers
Many rental companies have seasonal offers or discounts for new customers. It’s worth asking about such promotions or checking their website.
Watch Out for Hidden Fees
Make sure the price doesn’t just look cheap. Sometimes additional costs for extras like mileage charges or additional drivers are added. Clarify such questions directly with the provider to avoid surprises.
What You Should Do Before Returning the Van
To avoid unnecessary fees, you should keep a few things in mind before returning the van:
Refill the Fuel Tank
If the contract states that the van must be returned with a full tank, make sure to fill it up beforehand. Otherwise, many providers charge an additional fee.
Inspect the Van Carefully
Check the vehicle for any damages. If you notice something, report it to the provider immediately to avoid unnecessary costs.
Clean the Van
It’s not always mandatory, but most rental companies appreciate it if you return the van in a clean condition. Remove any trash and wipe down the vehicle if necessary.
Conclusion
A small van is a great option if you suddenly need more space for your belongings, whether for a move, a delivery, or even a small road trip. However, you should keep a few things in mind to ensure everything goes smoothly. Choosing the right provider, the appropriate rental duration, and carefully weighing the costs are key to making the rental not only affordable but also stress-free.
FAQs
How much does it cost to rent a small van?
The prices can vary depending on the provider and rental duration, but on average, the cost for a small van is between CHF 40 and CHF 100 per day. Keep in mind that some companies may charge additional fees for mileage or late returns.
Do I need a special driver's license for a small van?
In Switzerland, a standard driver's license of category B is sufficient as long as the vehicle has a total weight of under 3.5 tons. This applies to most small vans, so you don’t need to worry about having a special license.
Can I return the van outside of business hours?
Many providers offer the option to return the van outside of regular business hours. However, this depends on the specific provider, so it’s best to inquire beforehand and clarify everything to avoid surprises later.
What happens if I return the van late?
If you don’t return the van on time, additional fees may apply. These vary depending on the provider, but to avoid unnecessary costs, it’s always best to be punctual. If you realize that you won’t be able to return the van on time, contact the provider in advance and check if you can extend the rental.
