Crew vans: why they're great and what they're for

Crew vans, also known as crew cab vans, are versatile vehicles that are designed to transport both passengers and cargo efficiently. They typically feature an extended cabin with a large rear seating area, allowing them to accommodate a driver and multiple passengers while still offering ample cargo space in the rear compartment.

Crew vans come in various sizes and configurations, catering to different needs and preferences. This makes them a flexible solution for businesses or individuals who want a balance between passenger comfort and cargo capacity.

In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about crew vans and their uses. 

The benefits of crew vans

Flexibility 

Crew vans come in various sizes and configurations, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you're transporting a small work team, a large family or bulky equipment, there's probably a crew van that will get the job done.

Safety

Crew vans are designed with safety in mind. Features such as airbags, seat belts and reinforced cabins help ensure the safety of passengers during transportation and reduce the risk of injury – especially while carrying a heavy load.

Many crew vans feature ISOFIX points (for clipping in child seats) so you can travel in peace, knowing your family is secure and safe while on the road. 

Compliance 

Compliance with transportation regulations is crucial, so don't get caught out. Crew vans are designed and maintained to meet safety standards, making it simple to comply with regulations.

Who are crew vans useful for?

Construction companies

Crew vans provide a safe and efficient means of transporting construction workers to job sites. The extended cabin with multiple rear seats allows companies to transport a crew of workers in a single vehicle. 

In addition to carrying workers, crew vans offer cargo space in the rear compartment. This space is ideal for transporting construction tools, equipment and materials to the job site.

Using a branded van can enhance the professional image of a construction company. It looks good if the team arrives together, dressed for the job in a van that promotes the company brand. 

Small businesses

Whether you're a caterer, courier, window cleaner or children's party entertainer, crew vans can elevate your small business and make transport easier. After all, it's no fun trying to cram a lawn mower in the back of a coupé or worrying your food platters are unstable in the boot of your MINI.

With ample space and options for reconfiguration, using a crew van can take away the travel stress and allow you to concentrate on what really matters for your business – good service and delivering high-quality products. 

Large families 

Crew vans are a fantastic choice for large families, due to their ample seating capacity and spacious interiors. They're ideal for families with more than five members who need to travel together comfortably.

Whether you're planning a road trip or simply running errands, crew vans provide the flexibility to accommodate your entire family and any baggage or equipment you may need to transport.

Additionally, many crew vans offer entertainment systems and climate control features to keep everyone comfortable and entertained during long journeys. 

​​Crew vans are a cost-effective choice compared to purchasing multiple vehicles to accommodate a large family. Buying one large vehicle can help you save on maintenance and insurance costs.

Plus, you'll be travelling as a group and (hopefully) enjoying each other's company. What's not to like?

Bands 

One of the primary advantages of crew vans is their ability to transport equipment and people. They come with ample cargo space in the rear compartment, which is ideal for carrying musical instruments, amplifiers and stage gear. 

As they are so versatile, bands can configure the interior to meet their specific needs. Whether you're transporting band members, equipment or a combination of both, crew vans can adapt to your specific requirements.

Customisation options are also available, enabling bands to tailor the interior layout to accommodate instruments and gear effectively. You can add racks, shelves or tie-downs to keep everything organised and secure. This ensures that valuable equipment is protected during transit, reducing the risk of damage.

From a budgetary perspective, crew vans are cost-effective compared to renting multiple vehicles for gigs. They streamline transportation expenses and allow members to split the driving duties, making touring and gigging more financially sustainable and comfortable.

Driving crew vans 

Things to be aware of

There are a few things to be aware of when it comes to renting crew vans.

First, does your licence allow you to drive a van? A standard category B car licence lets you drive any van that weighs up to 3,500 kilograms. This covers most of the vans in our fleet – but be sure to double-check that your licence is valid when you get in touch.

In addition, there are a few age- and driving-related restrictions to note:

• You must have held a driver's licence for a minimum of two years.
• You must be aged 25 or over.
• You can't have more than six penalty points within the last five years.
• You mustn't have had a driving ban within the last ten years.
• You must have had no more than one accident within the last three years.

Tips for driving a crew van

Are you a little nervous about driving a van for the first time?

Try not to panic. Take things slowly, stay safe and follow the tips below.



• Be sure to adjust the seats and mirrors for safety and comfort.
• Get to grips with the controls before you set off.
• Familiarise yourself with onboard features, including driver-assist settings.
• Know the speed limits.
• Size up the van – practise parking and get used to driving a larger vehicle.

Conclusion

Crew vans are a versatile, comfortable and practical option when you need more space than a car, with the flexibility of carrying passengers as well as cargo.

Here at MVH Rental, we have an extensive range of affordable rental vans in Newcastle. Take away the stress and let us worry about the transport, whether it's for your large family, business or band.