The Difference Between Driving Cargo Vans & Everyday Vehicles

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From small sedans to large SUVs, vehicles come in various sizes, each driving and handling a bit differently. If you have driven a smaller vehicle for years, you might be concerned about driving a van.  

 

The fundamentals of driving a cargo van are the same as driving a car. However, a van is larger than a car, and drivers must make minor adjustments to their driving style to accommodate this. This blog will discuss how to adjust your driving to ensure safe driving and peace of mind when behind the wheel. 

 

Van Driving: What to Expect

Even if you're an experienced driver, driving a van differs from driving a small- or mid-sized vehicle. Vans are significantly wider, taller, and longer than most cars. You will need to adjust how you place the driver's seat, turn, and park your van. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings. Slowing down and maintaining a steady speed are the best ways to go.

 

If you've never driven a cargo van, practice in an open area like a parking lot. You will find that less experienced drivers appreciate the practice. 

 

How is Driving a Van Different from Driving a Car?

The basics of driving a cargo van are similar to a smaller vehicle; it's just a matter of adapting to the difference in size. You will still need to adjust the seat to suit your comfort, check the mirrors, be aware of your surroundings, etc. Your vehicle will take up more space, so you will need to have a better sense of judgment. 

 

It is your awareness behind the wheel that makes all the difference. Because you are driving a larger vehicle, awareness of other drivers and road hazards must increase. For example, the Sprinter Cargo van measures 19.5 ft, approximately 3 – 5 ft. longer than the average sedan. This noticeable increase in size requires you to use good judgment when merging lanes and making turns. You may think you have enough room to change lanes, but miscalculating the available space might cause an accident. If you make too wide of a turn, you may disrupt traffic flow. Conversely, if you turn too sharply, you can cause damage to the van's tires and axles.

 

Tips for Driving a Cargo Van

Before turning the ignition, ensure that you are comfortable by adjusting the seat to the best position. It will be slightly different because you have a higher vantage point than a car. 

 

Adjust your mirrors. If driving a van for the first time, you might need to make minor adjustments as you become more comfortable behind the wheel. You only have the outside mirrors to rely on in most vans, so you must use sound judgment. 

 

After starting the van, check the roads to ensure no traffic (i.e., vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists) is coming in any direction. Don't pull out faster than an approaching vehicle. When driving a van, you can't accelerate quickly like you would in a car. 

 

When driving, pay attention to your surroundings as it is more difficult to see what's happening alongside you. If you have difficulty seeing traffic, adjust your mirrors. Also, obey speed limits, as van speed limits are slightly lower than passenger vehicles. The speed limit is 70 mph on highways, and you can't exceed 30 MPH in built-up areas. Regardless of the speed limit, be mindful of your speed. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles as it's not as easy to brake in a van due to its weight. 

 

Parking may be the most challenging part of driving a van, as the reduced visibility makes it difficult to see your parking spot. If you have a passenger in your van, ask them to get out of the vehicle and help direct you. Go backward as slowly as you can, as there is a chance that you might touch another vehicle or object. There will be less chance of damage the slower you go. 

 

Partner with Southport Truck Group

At Southport Truck Group, we maintain a large inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles for you to choose from. The number one priority of our knowledgeable and experienced staff is providing nothing less than an outstanding experience, whether in sales, service, or financing. Call us today at 813 262-0890 (Tampa) / 239-210-9480 (Fort Myers) so we can help you find just the right Sprinter Van to fit your business needs.

 

Sources

https://www.bigvanworld.co.uk/blog/10-differences-between-driving-a-car-and-a-van/ 

https://vehq.com/is-driving-a-van-hard/ 

https://andersonvans.com/cargo-van-vs-suv/ 

 

 
Location: TEMPLE TERR, FL 33637, USA

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