Things to Consider When Renting a Handicap Van

For a lot of people who aren’t ready to buy a wheelchair van, or just aren’t sure which type of conversion is best for their travel accessibility needs, renting a van can be a great way to try one out.

As we’ve mentioned in previous posts, one of the most important things you can do before buying a new or used wheelchair van is to try it before buying it. Not all wheelchair vans and conversions are the same, so the more experience you have with various models, the better prepared you will be to purchase the right accessible van. In some cases, a mobility dealer will credit your rental costs towards purchasing a wheelchair van, should you decide to do so. We’ve even heard of people buying the one van that they rented because they liked it so much. That may not always be an option, but it’s worth mentioning to the dealer if the van fits your lifestyle and family requirements.

Side and Rear Entry Wheelchair Ramps

The majority of wheelchair vans for rent are going to be side entry minivans with a foldout wheelchair ramp. Some may be automatic and deploy with the press of a button (or key fob), while others may be manual. The other type of conversion popular with rental fleets is a rear-entry wheelchair van with a foldout ramp in the back cargo area. Many of these are manually operated, but very simple and easy to operate. If having a handicapped parking space with plenty of room on the passenger side for using the ramp is a concern, then a rear access vehicle may be the better option.

Wheelchair Van Tie-Down Equipment

When renting a wheelchair van, one of the most important steps is learning how to properly secure wheelchair passengers. This involves using retractable tie-down straps that anchor to the floor, which are the easiest to connect and adjust for tension. Additionally, seat belts that go across the waist and shoulder area are provided to ensure the passenger’s safety. Properly securing both the wheelchair and its occupant is paramount, as it prevents any movement during transit.

As you pick up your rental van, pay close attention to all instructions given by the dealer regarding the correct use of tie-downs and belts. Understanding these safety measures will help ensure a safe and comfortable journey for everyone involved.

Finding a Rental Location

Most of The Mobility Resource’s network of dealers have a variety of accessible vans for rent. Just like major automobile rental companies, they will require a credit card, a current driver’s license, and proof of insurance. There is typically going to be a limit on allowed mileage per day before a per mile additional charge gets added to the rental cost.

See your local mobility dealer for rental rates and mileage details. To find a rental location near you, visit our Find a Dealer page to search by your state or zip code.

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