FAQ

Refrigeration

Can I transport frozen products and chilled products together?

No. We rent mono-temperature vehicles to the general public. These either generate refrigeration temperatures (+0°C to +12°C), or freezer temperatures (-20°C to 0°C).


Is the refrigerated van already at the correct temperature when I come to collect it?

For rentals to the general public, Petit Forestier refrigerated vans are already at the correct temperature when collected at our branch. All you need to do is load your goods!


Can the temperature inside the refrigerated van be altered?

No. The temperature inside the refrigerated body is regulated by our refrigeration engineers at the branch. It cannot be altered by the user.


How long can the refrigerated van operate autonomously?

Whenever the engine of the vehicle is switched off and there is no electrical power supply, the refrigerated van will refrigerate your goods for between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the outside temperature. After that time has elapsed, the interior temperature will gradually increase and your products will start to spoil.


Vehicle

What should I do if the vehicle or refrigeration unit breaks down?

In the event of a problem with the vehicle or the refrigeration unit, contact technical support. Our engineers will provide advice over the phone and, if necessary, will come out to resolve the issue. In any case, keep the refrigerated van doors closed.


Is the refrigerated body disinfected before each rental?

Yes. All vehicles for hire comply with the hygiene standards in force. Before each rental, the refrigerated body is disinfected and the refrigeration unit checked.


Is it possible to drive the refrigerator truck outside the country of rental?

The insurance provided under the rental agreement covers France and the UK and some other countries, including Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and Italy (the full list of countries is printed on the back of the insurance document). Nevertheless, if you plan to drive the vehicle outside the country of rental, remember to advise the branch. Our teams will check the insurance guarantees for the country concerned, so that you can drive there with total peace of mind.


Driver

What are the requirements for driving a refrigerated truck?

To drive a refrigerated truck, you must be over 21 years of age and have held a valid driver’s licence for at least the past three years.


Can someone else drive the vehicle?

No. Only the named driver on the rental agreement who has supplied the supporting documents (proof of ID and licence) may drive the vehicle. Additional drivers are not insured against accidents.


How many passengers can I carry in the vehicle?

Refrigerated trucks are fitted with one or two passenger seats, depending on the category.


Reservation

How far in advance can I reserve a vehicle?

You can reserve a refrigerated van or trailer up to 6 months in advance.


Can I modify a booking after confirmation and payment?

Yes, you can change your booking after confirmation. To do this, please have your reservation number handy when you telephone the rental branch. However, during exceptionally busy periods, Petit Forestier may be unable to modify your reservation.


Can I cancel a booking after confirmation and payment?

Yes, you can cancel your booking by telephoning the rental branch.


Will I be reimbursed if I cancel?

The amount reimbursed is calculated based on the time between the date of cancellation and the scheduled date for hire.

Time between cancellation and scheduled hireReimbursement amount
More than one monthThe full amount paid will be reimbursed
Between a fortnight and one month75% of the amount paid will be reimbursed
Between one week and a fortnight50% of the amount paid will be reimbursed
Less than one weekNo reimbursement offered

Is insurance included in the quoted price?

Yes. When you hire a refrigerated truck from Petit Forestier, the price quoted includes the insurance. Prices are inclusive of all taxes.


Collection and Return

What supporting documents must I present when collecting the vehicle from the branch?

When collecting the vehicle from the branch, you must present:

  • a valid piece of ID;
  • proof of address dated within the previous 3 months;
  • valid driver’s licence; the driver must be over 21 years of age and have held a driver’s licence for at least three years;
  • a valid bank card, in the name of the person signing the agreement.

You will also be asked to pay a security deposit of 1,500 euros for a light goods vehicle and 2,000 euros for a utility vehicle – we take an imprint of the bank card for this.

The rental cost inclusive of all taxes will be charged prior to releasing the vehicle.


When is the security deposit taken?

The security deposit is taken when the vehicle is collected. It must be paid using the bank card belonging to the person named as the driver on the rental agreement. Your rental agreement will state the amount of the security deposit.


Can I return the vehicle to a different branch?

No, you must return the vehicle to the branch where it was collected.


Can I return the vehicle early?

Yes. You may return the rented vehicle before the date indicated in the rental agreement. The vehicle must be returned to the branch where it was collected. You will not receive a refund for any unused portion of the rental period.


Is it possible to return the vehicle outside branch opening hours?

No, the vehicle must be returned during the branch opening hours. Our staff will check over the vehicle with you to assess its condition upon return. If any vehicle is left in front of or near the branch without the renter being present and handing the key in person to one of our employees, then it shall be deemed as unreturned. This shall incur additional rental costs.


Are there any particular conditions for returning the vehicle?

The vehicle must be returned to the branch with a full tank of fuel. If you have not done so, you will be charged an additional fee. Please check that no goods have been left inside the refrigerated van.


Payment

Which payment methods are accepted?

Only card payments are accepted. Payment by cheque is not accepted.