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Refrigerated Van Hire FAQs

Please browse our Frequently Asked Questions by clicking the Questions below.
If you cannot find the question you are looking for, please give us a call.

REFRIGERATED VANS

Why do I need insulation?
Good quality insulation is very important to reduce the heat leaking into the vehicle from the walls, floor and roof. With warm air also entering as deliveries are made, the air temperature within the vehicle needs to be cooled and controlled by the refrigeration unit.

Without quality insulation, the refrigeration unit can not control the temperature correctly within the vehicle and it will gradually warm up. This means your products will not reach their destination at the temperature you require.
Why do I need a fridge unit as well as insulation?
If you load your products into an insulated-only vehicle, they will gradually warm up due to warm air entering the vehicle (for example as doors are opened for deliveries), and to heat leaking through the insulation. This is why a refrigeration unit is essential to extract this heat from the warm air and keep your product at the correct and loaded temperature.
Why does a fridge unit need servicing?
Unlike static refrigeration units, transport refrigeration units are subjected to extremes of vibration and abuse. With vehicle engine-driven systems, the compressor is belt driven from the front of the engine. This drive system and the flexible hoses need regular inspection to ensure risk free operation. Early diagnosis can save costly bills and most manufacturers offer fixed price maintenance schemes to give predictable cost of ownership.
What is my priority, space or payload?
It is often thought that a larger vehicle, such as a high roof would be a greater advantage for space, but always consider the amount of product you are able to carry in your vehicle before you become overloaded.
Why am I asked how many deliveries I make when I ask about a refrigerated or freezer van?
When the doors are opened to unload, a lot of the cold air inside the van escapes and "falls out". You will feel it around your feet. This can be controlled by using curtains, which are particularly effective for freezer temperatures (i.e. -20°C). The cold air that falls out is replaced by warm moist air, which enters at the top of the door opening. Because the vehicle engine is stopped, the refrigeration unit is not working so the heat has to be removed during the next journey. With a known number of deliveries per hour, an estimate can be made as to the surplus performance needed to maintain temperature in mid-summer.

DOCUMENTS

What qualifications or special licences do I need to drive your vans?
A Standard driving licence is sufficient to drive vehicles up to 7.5 ton. As from January 1st 1997 the law has changed relating to 7.5 ton vehicles and minibuses. If you passed your driving test on or after 1st January 1997, you need the relevant licence to drive 7.5 ton or a minibus. If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, you automatically have the right to drive both 7.5 ton and minibuses.
What documents do I need to bring?
Both parts of your photo Licence card plus two forms of identification with address. i.e. utility bills, bank statement.
What if I hold a non UK licence?
We must see the non UK licence, together with an international Licence.
What if I have points or a conviction on my driving licence?
We allow a maximum of 6 points for speeding/traffic offences; any points above this will have to be referred to our insurance company so you will need to telephone us with the details.

GENERAL

Is there a mileage limit?
Yes, we offer limited mileage of 150 miles per day for fridges with excess at 8 pence per mile, or unlimited mileage rates.
What is the minimum age for renting a fridge?
There is no minimum age providing the driving Licence is clean.
What is the maximum age for renting a fridge?
We have no maximum age, but may need to refer ages over 65 to our insurance company so please call us if you are over 65.
Can I take the fridge abroad?
Yes. We offer continental hire - special terms apply for taking a vehicle outside the UK, these can be discussed at time of booking.

EXTRAS

Can I add an additional driver? How much extra does it cost?
£ 5.00 per day per driver.
Can I request extras, e.g. baby seats or a roof rack?
Yes we will provide extras subject to availability. Please state your requirements at time of booking.

INSURANCE

What insurance cover is included? Are my personal possessions covered? What about personal cover if I have an accident?
Fully Comprehensive Insurance is provided for each vehicle with an excess of £1000.00; we do offer a Collision Damage Waiver to reduce the excess. Personal possesions are not covered on our insurance. Personal cover for passengers is included on our insurance but not for Drivers.

IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG

What happens if I break down?
All our vehicles are covered by a breakdown/recovery company. Details are clearly displayed in each vehicle.
What happens if I have an accident or the fridge is stolen?
Contact the Police and Economy Hire.
What happens if I get a parking ticket or speeding fine?
Your credit card will be debited with the cost of the fine and an administration charge, drivers details will be forwarded to the relevant authority.
What happens if I don't turn up to collect my fridge because of sickness or injury?
If you dont turn up for your hire within 2 hours of collection time, we will cancel the hire. If we are contacted we will endevour to rearrange your hire subject to availability of vehicle.

COLLECTING AND RETURNING

Does the fridge come with a full tank of petrol? Do I need to fill it up when I bring it back?
Our vehicles are supplied with 1/4 tank of fuel and should be returned with 1/4 tank.
What time do I have to return the fridge by?
As per your rental agreement, hire runs for 24 hours e.g. 8.15am - 8.15am or 5.00pm to 5.00pm. We can also arrange for free night before collection.
What are your opening times?
We are open 7 days a week:
    Monday to Friday: 8am - 5.30pm
    Saturday: 8am - 2pm
    Sunday: 9am - 12.30pm
What condition do I have to return the fridge in?
The rental agreement states that you return the vehicle in the same condition as when you hired.
What happens if I bring the fridge back late?
If a vehicle is going to be returned late please contact us asap, charges will be made for late returns subject to original hire agreement.
Can I collect or return a fridge outside normal rental hours?
Yes, subject to prior arrangement.

BOOKING

Can I request a particular fridge make or model?
Yes, we will do our best to accomodate any request subject to availability.
Can I book by email?
Yes, Please click on E-mail enquiry.
Can I cancel or change my booking once it is made?
Yes, as long as sufficient notice is given.

PAYMENT

How can I pay for my rental? Do I have to have a credit card?
Vehicle hire can be paid for by Cash, Cheque or Credit/Debit Card, but we do need a Credit/Debit card for Deposit purposes.
Can I get a VAT receipt for business hire?
You will receive an invoice/VAT receipt on collection of your vehicle.
What's included in the price?
Included in the price is vehicle hire, mileage agreed and basic insurance with excess of £1000, (Collision Damage Waiver will be offered at time of hire, this reduces the excess payable).