FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Read our most frequently asked questions about hiring a car or van with us
I have made a booking online when will someone contact me?
A member of our booking team will contact you by calling the number given on the booking form to arrange booking and payment. They will usually call within 2 hours, if however, you have not heard anything within this time scale please call our office on 01843 295336 / 01227 788220.
Do you accept cash as a form of payment?
Unfortunately, we can no longer accept cash as a form of payment for the vehicle deposit or vehicle hire. Credit & Debit Cards are welcome.
Can I cancel my booking even after my deposit is paid?
Yes, you can cancel your booking up to 48 hours before the delivery time by contacting our booking team on 01843 295336 / 01227 788220 (cancellation fee applies)
Is there a mileage limit?
Yes 250 miles per day, excess mileage charges at 10p per mile.
Do you hire vehicles that we can take abroad?
All our vans are eligible for European hire. We must have at least 5 working days notice for European hires.
Is your day rate for 24 hours?
Yes. Collection and drop off times available all day
Do I need to provide my driving licence?
Yes, your licence must be provided before you hire the vehicle.
What paperwork do I need to bring with me?
Your driving licence, your National Insurance number, 2 x Proofs of Address (recent utility bills or bank statements confirming your current address). If you have the old-style paper licence (no photocard) you must also bring another form of photographic I.D., For example, your passport.
Is there an age limit
Yes, our ages range between 21 and 79.
How long must I have been driving to be able to hire a vehicle?
- 21-24 Must have held A full licence for a period of two years.
- 21-22 Must be free of conviction.
What happens if I return a vehicle late?
If you return the vehicle later than the time specified on your booking you will be charged for the additional time that you have had possession of the vehicle. The charges incurred will be at the usual daily rental rate of that vehicle and will be taken from the deposit. If you are over 30 minutes late you will be charged for a full day.
What should I do if I have a problem with a vehicle?
Contact Lobster Van Hire immediately on 01843 295336 / 01227 788220.
What should I do if I have a complaint?
Write to: Lobster Van Hire Complaints Department, 19 Patricia Way, Pysons Road Industrial Estate, Broadstairs, CT10 2LF. Or call 01843 295336 / 01227 788220.
Can vehicles be dropped off out of hours?
Yes, they can, but the hirers remain legally responsible for the vehicle until it has been checked in by our staff.
Do you provide 24-hour vehicle collection?
No. Paperwork has to be completed to cover insurance prior to hiring. We can sometimes complete all the formalities before collection although the vehicle is only insured during the times signed for on the form. You would still be held liable for any damage to the vehicle whilst it stands to await collection. Please call us about this.
Are the prices given inclusive of insurance?
Yes, the price includes comprehensive Insurance Cover, Nationwide AA Breakdown Cover and an allowance of 250 miles per day. We offer an optional excess waiver which can reduce excess liability from £1,000 down to £600, which costs £15 per day of hire, extra.
Luton Vans, Tippers and MPV vehicles – exclusions apply.
Can I hire a vehicle with endorsements on my driving licence?
Details of endorsements must always be taken. Depending on the seriousness of the endorsement and the number of the endorsements, you may be able to hire a vehicle. Contact our office by phone or email with details to be sure. Remember if the full details are not given this may result in you not being insured.
How many drivers can I have
The initial price per vehicle covers one driver. Any additional drivers may be added onto the insurance at an extra price of £5.00 per driver per day of hire.
Can you hire a vehicle one way
No, unfortunately, all vehicles must be returned to the collection point.
