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5 Best Van Rentals in Aberdeen

5 Best Van Rentals in Aberdeen

  • Inventory – Evaluating the quality and selection of available vans is crucial to provide renters with diverse options.
  • Credibility – We examined the companies' years in operation and accreditations to gauge their reliability and trustworthiness.
  • Prices – Our assessment included the van rental costs from each company so that you can find one that suits your budget.
  • Responsiveness – We also looked at how efficiently each company addressed customer requirements and inquiries.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned or a first-time renter, renting a van is a necessity disguised as a choice. Whether you’re navigating narrow streets or embarking on an adventure, the right van can turn a logistical nightmare into a smooth ride. 

In this guide, we’ll uncover the best van rental options that Aberdeen has to offer. From compact vans for those city errands to spacious movers for relocations, we’ve sifted through the choices to help make your journey a van-tastic one!

1. Low Cost Car and Van Hire

Low Cost Car and Van Hire's Homepage

Van Rental Options: Premium Van Fleet, Budget Van Fleet

Website: https://lowcostcarandvanhire.co.uk/

Address: 113 Constitution St, Aberdeen AB24 5ET, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 1224 621002

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Tue, Thurs-Fri: 9AM–4:30PM
  • Wednesday: 9AM–4PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM–10AM
  • Sunday: 9AM–9:15AM
Google reviews score4.7/5
Facebook reviews score4.5/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Total Reviews4.7/5
Inventory4/5
→Quality5/5
→Selection3/5
Credibility5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)5/5
Responsiveness4/5

Pros

  • More than 20 years in the business
  • Located near Aberdeen Airport
  • Offers both budget and premium van fleets
  • Provides full breakdown cover
  • Also includes fully comprehensive insurance

Cons

  • Strict cancellation policy
  • Minimum 4-hour rental
  • Does not allow van hires outside the UK

With more than two decades in the industry, Low Cost Car and Van Hire brings extensive experience. We think this longevity makes them one of the top dogs in the van rental industry.

Their central office location simplifies accessibility for both city arrivals and those seeking a convenient pickup point, being close to Aberdeen Airport.

Additionally, they provide a range of options catering to various preferences and budgets. They offer both Budget and Premium Van fleets, providing cost-effective choices without compromising essential features.

Moreover, customers would be glad to know that they’re covered in case of emergencies. All vehicles come with full breakdown cover, including relay service to the base in case of non-roadside repairs, ensuring assistance. 

Speaking of coverage, fully comprehensive insurance is also included, offering peace of mind by providing customers with adequate protection during their rental period.

However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind. Low Cost Car and Van Hire enforces a stringent cancellation policy, with no refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled hire start time.

Additionally, a minimum van hire duration of 4 hours may pose limitations for renters seeking very short-term or quick-use rentals, potentially requiring careful planning.

Lastly, it’s essential to note that the company’s services do not extend to hires outside the UK. Therefore, travellers embarking on journeys beyond the country’s borders may need to explore alternative rental options.

2. Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental's Homepage

Van Rental Options: Small, Standard, Large, Extra Large, Box Van with Tail Lift

Website: https://www.arnoldclarkrental.com/car-and-van-hire-locations/aberdeen

Address: Canal Rd, Aberdeen AB25 3TL, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 1224 622714

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 8AM–5:30PM
  • Saturday: 8AM–4:30PM
  • Sunday: 9AM–4PM
Google reviews score4.5/5
Trustpilot reviews score4.9/5
Score consistency4.8/5
Total Reviews4.7/5
Inventory5/5
Quality5/5
Selection5/5
Credibility5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)3.5/5
Responsiveness3/5

Pros

  • Over 50 years of experience
  • 30-minute drive from the airport
  • One-way car and van rentals
  • Hourly hire options
  • Inclusive insurance coverage and roadside assistance
  • Unlimited mileage for rentals lasting four days

Cons

  • Comparatively expensive
  • Reports of customer service issues

Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental is another well-known van rental in Aberdeen. With over 50 years of industry experience, it stands as a seasoned player in the car and van rental arena. 

Their Aberdeen branch, situated just a 30-minute drive from the airport, offers travellers a convenient location for both pickup and drop-off. 

Unlike other rental shops, they offer one-way car and van rentals, granting customers the flexibility to collect their vehicles in Aberdeen and return them at various branches across England and Scotland. Meaning, they cater to diverse travel itineraries.

Another way they stand out is by offering hourly hire options. Customers can rent vans for shorter durations, aligning with specific needs and budgets.

Furthermore, inclusive insurance coverage and VAT, along with the provision of roadside assistance, offer peace of mind and reliability during the rental period.

Customers can also benefit from unlimited mileage for rentals lasting four days or more – a valuable feature for those embarking on longer journeys. 

However, it’s worth noting that some customers have expressed concerns regarding van rental rates, which can range from £71.50 to £132 per day. Those with budgetary concerns might need to look elsewhere.

Additionally, occasional customer service issues have been reported, with instances of rudeness and disputes over additional charges. These factors should be considered when evaluating Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental as a rental option.

3.  Thrifty Car and Van Rental

Thrifty Car and Van Rental's Homepage

Van Rental Options: Short Wheel Base, Long Wheel Base, Compact Vans

Website: https://www.thrifty.co.uk/car-hire/aberdeen.htm

Address: 8-12 St Machar Dr, Aberdeen AB24 3SE, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 1224 974750

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 8:30AM–5:30PM
  • Saturday: 8:30AM–12:30PM
Google reviews score4.2/5
Facebook reviews score4.1/5
Score consistency5/5
Total Reviews4.5/5
Inventory4/5
→Quality5/5
→Selection3/5
Credibility5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)3/5
Responsiveness5/5

Pros

  • 50 years in the business
  • Has over 85 locations across the UK
  • 2015 Best Short-term Rental Company of the Year
  • Insurance, VAT, and roadside assistance
  • Has mileage allowances
  • Specialises in corporate and fleet vehicle rentals
  • Supports various charities

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays
  • Expensive
  • Limited range of van choices

Thrifty Car and Van Rental boasts a rich history spanning five decades, operating from a vast network of over 85 locations across the nation. Their size and longevity signify 

how well-established and accessible they are.

What makes them unique is that they’ve been recognized as the Best Short-term Rental Company of the Year in 2015 by Fleet News. Customers would be assured since they seem to know what they’re doing in terms of service.

Notably, their rental rates encompass essential features, including insurance, VAT, and comprehensive roadside assistance. Knowing that essential features are covered without hidden fees provides customers with peace of mind.

For added convenience, Thrifty provides varying mileage allowances, offering free 100 miles per day for rentals spanning 1-14 days and 70 miles 15-27 days. Options like these provide flexibility and options that align with customers’ travel needs.

Thrifty’s specialisation in corporate and fleet vehicle rentals, with over 95% of their bookings catering to business clients, is important. It reflects their commitment to providing reliable service to professionals.

The company also supports various charities like Hospiscare and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. Showing their social responsibility makes them attractive to certain philanthropic clients, especially businesses.

However, they’re closed on Sundays, which may impact customers seeking weekend rentals. 

Additionally, van rental rates, starting at £107 – £127 for a single day, can be relatively expensive. 

Furthermore, the range of available van choices is somewhat limited, primarily offering short wheelbase, long wheelbase, and compact vans. 

4. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Enterprise Rent-A-Car's Homepage

Van Rental Options: Large Van Commercial, Extra Large Van Commercial, Medium Van Commercial, Small Van, Luton Van with Tail-Lift, Cargo Luton Diesel

Website: https://www.enterprise.co.uk/en/car-hire-locations/uk/aberdeen.html

Address: Girdleness Rd, Aberdeen AB11 8DU, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 1224 894679

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 8AM–5PM
  • Saturday: 9AM–12PM
Google reviews score4.3/5
Rentalcars.com reviews score4.4/5
Score consistency5/5
Total Reviews4.6/5
Inventory5/5
→Quality5/5
→Selection5/5
Credibility4/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)3/5
Responsiveness5/5

Pros

  • Located at Aberdeen International Airport
  • Has over 400 UK locations
  • Includes a damage waiver
  • Offers a one-way car rental service
  • Free pick-up and drop-off service
  • Vans meets emission standards
  • Offers long-term van rentals 

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays
  • £200 deposit required
  • Credit card is mandatory for 4x4s and premium vehicles

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is another reputable van rental in the local area. Its location at Aberdeen International Airport offers travellers easy access to its services, while its vast network of over 400 UK locations offers convenience. 

They provide a damage waiver within the rental cost, giving customers peace of mind during their trips. 

In terms of service, they offer a one-way car rental service that enables you to pick up a vehicle at one location and drop it off at another. Meaning, they’re able to accommodate different trip routes.

Additionally, their free pick-up and drop-off service within the UK enhances the overall convenience of renting a car, as you can arrange transportation to and from their rental locations with ease. We think that’ll help provide a seamless rental experience.

For those needing extra cargo space, their modern van fleet in Aberdeen meets emission standards and caters to various needs. They even offer long-term van rentals for businesses.

However, customers should note that Enterprise Rent-A-Car is closed on Sundays, potentially affecting weekend travel plans. 

Additionally, a compulsory deposit of £200 for van rentals is required, which may impact the initial cost of hiring a van. 

For those interested in 4x4s and premium vehicles, having a credit card is mandatory, so customers should ensure they meet this requirement when booking. 

5. Northgate Vehicle Hire

Northgate Vehicle Hire's Homepage

Van Rental Options: Small, Medium, Large Vans

Website: https://www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk/branch-finder/aberdeen

Address: Altens, 12a Peterseat Dr, Aberdeen AB12 3HT, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 1224 216540

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 8AM–5:30PM
  • Saturday: 8AM–12PM
Google reviews score4/5
Trustpilot reviews score3.1/5
Score consistency4.2/5
Total Reviews3.7/5
Inventory5/5
→Quality5/5
→Selection5/5
Credibility5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)4/5
Responsiveness4/5

Pros

  • 42 years of experience
  • 67 branches nationwide
  • Received several accolades
  • Maintenance program and 24/7 breakdown cover
  • Offers flexible hire 
  • Long-term business hires
  • Offers livery and racking
  • Does not require deposits

Cons

  • Account setup process takes up to 48 hours
  • Renters are subject to credit checks

Northgate Vehicle Hire is a reliable option in the vehicle rental market. Since its inception in 1981, it has expanded its presence with a wide network of 67 branches across the nation. 

We’re quite impressed with their recent accolades, having been recognized as the FleetNews Reader Recommended in 2023 and the 2022 Winner of Rental Company of the Year. Such awards speak volumes about their reputation in the industry. 

They include a maintenance program and 24/7 breakdown cover as standard offerings on all their vehicles. The assurance of support can significantly benefit customers and minimise downtime.

Another strength is their flexible hire arrangement, which requires a minimum 3-month commitment. 

For businesses with longer-term needs, they provide rental terms spanning from 12 to 48 months. Companies can tailor their rental durations according to their specific requirements. 

Moreover, Northgate goes the extra mile by offering customization options such as livery and racking to enhance the utility of their vehicles for business purposes.

Unlike many rental services, they do not necessitate deposits, reducing the upfront financial burden for customers. 

However, prospective clients should be aware that the account setup process may take up to 48 hours upon receiving the application form, so planning ahead is advisable. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that the decision to rent a vehicle is subject to a credit check. 

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