Posted in Ideas & Tips

Advantages of Adding a Van Ladder Rack of Your Fleet Vehicles

Ladder racks are a necessary tool throughout the trade industries because they keep ladders safe and secure while you are driving. This blog is very helpful to find out what are the top advantages of adding a ladder racks to fleet vehicles and how to select the right ladder rack for your needs.

Advantages of a Ladder Rack for Fleet Vehicles

  • Streamline ladder usage – The more your company can streamline processes such as loading and managing job sites, the more efficient and cost-effective your workers can be. Ladder racks are one of the best streamline ladder usage, so workers can be more productive.
  • Protect your employees – For workers in construction and other service industries, hauling and loading ladders is not only tiring, but it can also be dangerous. A ladder rack is a simple yet effective solution.
  • Promotes safety – Ladder racks secure ladders during transit, they promote public safety. A ladder that falls off a fleet vehicle could seriously injure other drivers or passer-by.
  • Save time – It saves the time of loading and unloading the van when employees are always placing ladders on racks compared with when they’re trying to pack everything in the back of the van.

Benefits of Van Ladder Racks

Ladders are expensive, necessary pieces of equipment for many industries, thus it is important to keep them safe and secure. By using a van ladder rack, your business can reclaim space inside the cargo van. More interior space means it is easier to load in tools and equipment.

It’s also easier when ladders are out of the way, yet securely within reach. Ladders stay where your workers placed them when you use a ladder rack, rather than sliding around the cargo van where they could damage other supplies.

How to Select a Ladder Rack for Your Fleet Vehicle

Actually van ladder racks are not created equally. It is important to invest in quality equipment that will serve your business for years to come, rather than focusing on a price point. Higher prices show that quality of ladder rack is good and it is used in business for daily use. 

A cheap ladder rack may not be reliable, becoming a liability to your business rather than an asset. It is always recommended to purchase the best ladder rack you can afford.

Ladder racks come in many different shapes and sizes, which means you will be able to find a ladder rack that suits your vehicle’s needs no matter what type of fleet vehicle you own.

Posted in Uncategorized

Looking for Cheap Van Rentals?

As a savvy business person, you are always on the look-out for ways to save and get better return on your. As an expert in commercial Van and Truck rentals we Special Offers can offer you that ‘cheap’ route and provide greater value for your money.

The Dangers of “Cheap”

There are some companies out there that market their rental vans as “cheap deal” and “a bargain” because they have cut corners. Some of the issues you may face when working with these providers might include:

  • Ignored routine maintenance and critical safety checks
  • Use of inappropriately-sized tyres and replacement components
  • Rental vans that have known safety issues

Tips for Finding Cheap Van Rentals

Save money on your next Van and Truck rental without compromising safety. This is why we offer genuine Special Offers while giving you access to our well-maintained, reliable fleet. Here are some ways you can save on your next rental van:

  • Daily Deals: We offer Daily savings opportunities that change each month. For example, you can get our large van for an unbeatable per day. We also offer Comprehensive Hire Drive Insurance, if required.
  • Midweek Specials: If you are renting a van in the middle of the week, National Truck Rental offers special Discounts on multiple sizes of van rentals.
  • Weekend House Movers Special: For those moving to a new house over the weekend, we have great weekend deals – including our Mini Mover for just €165.

You do not have to worry about safety or reliability.

Posted in Ideas & Tips

Three Tips for Choosing a Refrigerated Van

Driving refrigerated vans to an event can be the best way to make sure that cool products remain at the optimal temperature. But choosing the right van for the occasion can be challenging. There are specific elements that must be reviewed before picking up that ideal vehicle. In this latest post, our experts explain more on the process with their three tips for choosing a refrigerated van.

Ensure the Vans Go Under Regular Maintenance

Before working with a rental company and choosing a refrigerated van, it’s important that you find out how much maintenance the company completes on their vehicles. Are they able to ensure that your refrigerated van is maintained regularly and won’t break down on the road? What kind of assurances can they provide on the performance of the vehicle?

This is particularly important when renting a refrigerated van compared with renting other vehicles, as refrigerated vans must be assured to retain a specific temperature throughout the journey. Any issue with a small component in the vehicle can ruin the transported goods.

Consider the Size of the Vehicle

When it comes to choosing a refrigerated van for your event needs, bigger isn’t always better. If you’re transporting goods that must be tightly packed, such as medical supplies and food items, then a smaller van can help you to keep the goods in optimal condition.

Before making a decision on a vehicle, make sure you have time to review the sizing of the interior of the vehicle before you rent. You might also consider visiting the facility and discussing vehicle sizing with a specialist. Oftentimes, companies have a number of sizing options designed to meet the demands of all renters.

Book Well in Advance

A common mistake many event planners make is waiting until the last minute to book transportation. While it makes sense to wait until you’re sure that other elements are in place, such as the venue and the attendees, you should ensure that special transportation requirements are met well before the event takes place.

Vehicles such as refrigerated vans are in high demand throughout the region. Renters across Ireland are seeking out these vehicles for both event needs and the commercial transportation requirements. Making sure the vehicle is secured before the event can help streamline the planning process going forward.

Posted in Ideas & Tips

Where Has the Refrigerated Vehicle Come From?

Until recent years the ability of transporting frozen foods was extremely difficult, this was all down to the stringent legalities concerning food distribution. Large trailers attached to Lorries were the main source for such deliveries of frozen foods and goods by road, which were mainly utilized by the corporate shopping chains.

This has now changed due to the manufacture of the refrigerator van and freezer equipped vehicles. The demand was so great for such requirements that the likes of Vehicles have become recognized as one of the leading suppliers of refrigerated vans within the UK. This is alongside providing a whole team of conversion specialists who will adapt and convert your existing vehicle, so it can transport frozen foods.

This in turn has seen significant increase in within the food and catering industries. It has given local firms a whole new lease of life by giving them the ability to diversify their businesses and offer additional catering services. Weddings, parties and corporate events are just some of the sectors that are now booming from the creation of the refrigerated vehicles.

This will continually increase within the UK as we seek out new restaurants and caterers to satisfy our appetite for takeaway foods. One thing is definite and that is the freezer equipped vehicles are here to stay and will continue to be an invaluable tool within our society.

This will continually increase within the UK as we seek out new restaurants and caterers to satisfy our appetite for takeaway foods. One thing is definite and that is the freezer equipped vehicles are here to stay and will continue to be an invaluable tool within our society.

Posted in Commercial Van

New refrigerated vehicles can enhance your business.

Having a refrigerated vehicle could enhance you and your business. With the use of one of many refrigerated vans you will be able to ensure that you products don’t go bad and that you can provide your own customers with great tasting food. A refrigerated van could also be used make your life much easier, as having your own refrigerated vehicle means that you can travel on longer journey’s having to worry that your products may go bad, it will also mean that you can cover a wider array of areas providing customers with your high quality products.

We have a wide range of new refrigerated vehicles so that you can find the one that is perfect for you and that can fulfill all of your needs and requirements. We also offer a wide range of second hand refrigerated vehicles as we believe all the food industry companies should be able to travel to different areas and providing their products.

Whether you’re in the ice cream business or the catering, we can provide you with your very own, new refrigerated vehicle today.

Posted in Commercial Van

The benefits of van racking for your business

Whether you’re a self-employed sole trader or the boss of your own small business, getting the right vehicle for the job is an important consideration. But it’s not just about what your commercial van looks like on the outside or what’s under the hood. In fact, choosing a professional van racking system for the interior can have a surprisingly large impact on your business – and here’s why.

Time saving

Firstly, van racking is a simple way to free up some time. No matter what size your vehicle, chances are that it will quickly turn into chaos without an organization system in place.

But by installing racking units and van shelving, you can ensure that all of your equipment is on hand as and when you need it – eliminating the need to waste hours rummaging through a sea of tools and materials in search of a specific piece. 

Moreover, many van racking companies now offer removable storage solutions, so you can actually take all the tools that you need to the jobsite – so you don’t need to waste time returning to your vehicle. And because you can design a racking system to suit your individual needs, you can easily maximise the efficiency of your space – saving you more time in the long run.

Making the most of your load capacity

 By saving time that might be spent searching a disorganised van, you can give your business a welcome boost. However, that’s not the only way in which a good van racking design can help you on your way towards success.

If you think that you might need to invest in a larger vehicle, consider a clever storage solution first. With the right van racking solution in place, you can make the most out of the load space you have – meaning not only less trips, but you’ll no longer need to invest in a bigger van. 

Protecting your tools and van

No matter what your business, it’s likely that a significant amount of your budget is spent on material and tools – so it makes sense to keep these in the best condition that you can. But when your only storage option is a pile in the back of a van, it’s easy for valuable supplies to get damaged or lost.

By choosing a van racking system, you’re opting to protect your investments – a choice that will help you keep costs down over the years. By installing a high quality van racking system, you will also avoid causing internal damage to your vehicle’s body work from unsecured loads. By taking care of your van interior you will potentially receive a higher resale value on your vehicle when you come to selling it.

Professional looking commercial vehicle

Finally, a good van racking system is essential to maintaining a professional appearance. Recent research suggested that the appearance of your van has a direct effect on obtaining new business. 

More than 39% of the respondents surveyed, stated that they would be worried about the reliability of a tradesman driving a van in poor condition.  What’s the point in forking out for a smart, branded van when a chaotic mess is revealed every time that the doors open? Not only will a smart storage solution keep your tools and equipment clean and free from damage, it will also create a streamlined working environment that looks professional from all angles.

Posted in Ideas & Tips

5 Space-Saving Shelving Ideas To Consider

The use of Commercial vehicles is growing eight times faster than other parts of the auto industry because they’re so useful and versatile.

If you’re reading this, you want to get the most out of your van, and we’re here to help. Read on for some shelving ideas that will help you make the most out of your van space.

1. Adjustable Shelving

Adjustable shelving can make the most out of your van space without locking you into one single solution.

With adjustable shelving, you can change the size of your shelves easily, making your van space versatile and able to work with a variety of things you may need to store.

2. Locking Drawers

If you have equipment that you need to keep a little more secure than what other shelving solutions may afford, locking drawers may be the solution for you.

Locking drawers are great for keeping items safe and locked away, so if you need your cargo van to safely store items, consider locking drawers.

3. Paintbrush Rack

If you’re in an industry where paintbrushes need to be safely and cleanly transported, a magnetized paintbrush rack may be just the thing you need to make the most out of your gruau van.

Magnetized paintbrush racks can easily store your brushes in a way that optimizes the space of your van.

4. Ladder Racks

If the inside of your van is getting too crowded, consider having a ladder rack installed. A ladder rack will free up space inside by allowing you to store big bulky items, like a ladder, on the outside.

5. Custom Shelving

If none of these van shelving ideas seem quite right for you, then consider putting together a custom shelving solution.

There are countless combinations you can put together inside and outside your van to create the perfect solution for your space and storage needs.

We guarantee there is a combination of options out there that will fit the exact needs you’re looking for.

Posted in Commercial Van

A refrigerator unit must keep operating through the hottest conditions and the longest traffic tailbacks.

Taking perishable goods across many states network needs vehicles with purpose-built equipment to keep them at a regulated low temperature. Meat, fish and dairy producers are the main users of refrigerated vans. They are designed to run a cooling unit at as low cost as possible for long periods. This is because, though a journey can be planned to take a certain amount of time, there are always the unexpected delays.

Take into account the farmer producing quality beef, lamb or pork. He has had his stock slaughtered on the farm, and now needs to get the meat from a remote corner of the country to market in as short a time as possible, with the meat in as good a condition as possible. For this, the driver must take the quickest route while the van must continue to keep temperatures at preset levels in order to maintain the meat ready for auctioning.

The technology used to maintain these temperatures isn’t new, but it has been improved over the years to use less diesel and be more effective. The worst that could happen for the haulage contractor and the farmer would be for the van to break down en-route to market, and the cargo of meat to be lost in sweltering conditions on the road.

Thus, if you want reliability, check out the meat delivery trucks that we have offer. There is a model for all transport needs. Just drop your comments in the section for your concern.

Posted in Commercial Van

4 fast facts about Commercial Vehicles

The digitisation of life is having a major impact on the automobile landscape. As virtual shopping carts fill thanks to growing online commerce, more and more light commercial vehicles  are being purchased to carry goods from warehouses to the consumer. This has created a new business model for many companies. As a result, sales of these vehicles have grown by more than 11% per year since 2013, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. CVs are coming, and here are four fast facts about them you need to know.

By the number

Smaller and more agile than large trucks, CVs are able to move merchandise quickly, particularly in cities, and are beginning to make up a considerable proportion of fleets. Of 650,000 vehicles in Alphabet’s portfolio in February, 2017, 83,000 were CVs. For all companies, large and small that are building up a delivery service or have an existing one, CVs are an important tool. As experts in fleet management, leasing providers like Alphabet can make important recommendations based on their experience.

Covering all bases

CVs are different from passenger cars and therefore require a different service level. Drivers have to make many stops, open and close doors and hatchbacks, and often reconfigure the interior, causing wear and tear on seats and moving parts like hinges. A full service agreement that covers servicing, maintenance and repair work becomes essential, in order to give the owning company peace of mind. This is especially important for small and medium sized enterprises, which often do not have a dedicated fleet manager. And part of the services offered is driver training for these vehicles, to lower accident rates and wear and tear on the car.

More than just a car

Commercial vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes have a clear set of functions: to transport goods door-to-door. Not all models are alike, and individual businesses should make sure they have the right vehicles for the jobs on hand. Just buying any low-price CV might increase expenses down the road. The needs of the driver and the kind of freight being carried must be taken into consideration. Most CVs, therefore, should be professionally retrofitted, which is a task Alphabet outsources to trusted external partners.

Future delivery

Connectivity is allowing new business models and improved efficiency of fleets. It is a key component in automated driving, which is about to extend to CVs. Those companies ready to take on new technologies have the possibility of developing new and profitable business models.

Have these four Commercial Vans facts whetted your appetite for more information? Or do you have questions or some information you would like to add? We welcome your views in the comments section below.

Posted in Commercial Van, Ideas & Tips

5 Essentials for Safety and Comfort When Driving a Work Van

If you’re new driving a commercial vehicle, here are a few essential items to keep in mind. A work van is usually larger and more substantial than a passenger car and is used for different purposes.

1. The Driver’s Seat in a Work Van

Driver in a van seat

Being comfortable in the driver’s seat is very important. You don’t want to deal with backaches and drowsiness while driving. A seat that is not adjusted properly can cause several problems such as stress and strain on your neck, legs, and arms.

The first thing is to adjust the seat forward or backward so you are able to fully press gas and brake pedals. (You may be sharing the driver’s seat with other drivers.) Adjust the rear and side-view mirrors so you are can see vehicles coming up on you from the side or from behind.

As a tip: Seat covers are a good option for protecting seats from spills and stains. There are washable options that can be easily removed and put into the washing machine. They also provide insulation from hot seats in the summer.

2. Work Van: Controls and Features

This is might be a “no-brainer,” but familiarize yourself with the dashboard functions. It helps to know where the indicators, headlights, hazards, and wipers are. Finding where the controls are and familiarizing yourself with the features will enable you to drive more confidently.

An in-dash navigation system that provides turn-by-turn directions makes it easier to keep your eyes on the road rather than on a map or printed directions. Consider a separate GPS unit if a nav system isn’t available in the truck you’re looking to purchase.

Headlights are an important safety component on your van. They are not only critical to driving in the dark but can be used to improve visibility in poor weather conditions. Be sure you are aware of headlight control placement and what the different settings do. It is also important to know where your hazard lights are.

3. Dimensions of the Work Van

When driving, keep in mind the van’s dimensions. Some things to keep in mind while on the road.

  • How tall is the working van?
  • Is the van long-wheelbase or just the standard?
  • Are there height restrictions in the areas you cover?
  • What is the weight?
  • How wide is your van?

Knowing the height and width of your work van will be beneficial if you come upon a height clearance limitation, or need to drive through a narrow alley or roadway.

4. Payload or Additional Weight

Space management and vehicle-load plays a significant role in driving. As a van driver, you need to stay within the weight limits when you’re driving so you don’t overload it. With the model number, you can confirm this online or with the owner’s manual. Pay attention to your van’s cargo, tire weight limits, tire pressure, and alignment.

Weight also plays a significant role because vans are made to transport goods or people, while cars are made for the average family. When driving your van be sure to brake sooner and be on the lookout for cars.

To ensure items do not move around and become damaged, keep the heavy items on the lower level and secure them with tie downs or bungee cords. This will also keep moving items from destabilizing your van.

5. Tall Ladder Racks on Vans

Van Ladder racks are a key item for getting the job done. The height of ladder racks needs to be taken into account before driving a work van. Make sure ladders and ladder racks are securely fastened before each trip. Check to see if the ladder is hanging out too far past the length or width of your van.

When driving it doesn’t hurt to take into consideration the height of your van. Make sure to stay clear of objects like trees and branches that way you mitigate your risk of damaging your ladder rack.

A final tip… The final driving tip is to make a difference in road safety. Be friendly, patient and practice patience when driving. Be aware of other drivers on the road. Avoid aggressive and inattentive driving tendencies. Keeping courteous driving behaviors in mind can make you not only a professional driver but a safe one as well.