When you hire a car, van or HGV from Salford Van Hire, a deposit is required at the start of your rental. We know customers often have questions about how deposits work, what the amounts are, and how and when they’re refunded. This guide covers all the key information so you know exactly what to expect.
Why do I need to pay a deposit?
A deposit is a security measure that protects against potential costs such as:
- Damage to the vehicle
- Insurance excess in the event of an accident
- Fuel shortages when returning the vehicle
- Late return charges or extensions
- Any outstanding fines, penalties, or charges
Provided the vehicle is returned in the same condition, on time, and with a full tank of fuel, your deposit is fully refundable.
How much is the deposit?
Deposits vary depending on the type of vehicle, the driver’s age, and licence type. Below is a summary of the standard deposits and excess amounts:
| Vehicle Type | Driver Age | Deposit | Excess | With EDW (Excess Damage Waiver) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Groups A & AA | 21–24 | £1000.00 | £1000.00 | Not available |
| Car Groups B & C | 21–24 | £1500.00 | £1500.00 | Not available |
| Car Groups A, AA, B, C | 25+ | £500.00 | £500.00 | £100.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £12 + VAT = £14.40/day) |
| Toyota Hybrid (Group E & H) | 25+ | £500.00* | £500.00 | £500.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £8.33 + VAT = £10/day) |
| Kia Sportage (Group D) | 25+ | £500.00* | £500.00 | £500.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £8.33 + VAT = £10/day) |
| 9 Seater MPVs | 25+ | £500.00* | £500.00 | £100.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £15 + VAT = £18/day) |
| Vans up to 3.5T | 21–24 | £1000.00* | £1500.00 | Not available |
| Vans up to 3.5T | 25+ | £500.00* | £500.00 | £100.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £20 + VAT = £24/day) |
| Vans 7.5T | 21–24 | £500.00* | £500.00 | Not available |
| Vans 7.5T | 25+ | £500.00* | £500.00 | £300.00 deposit, no excess (EDW £30 + VAT = £36/day) |
| Vans 12–18T | 25+ | £1000.00* | £1000.00** | Not available |
* Hybrid cars and the Kia Sportage require a valid credit card for the deposit – debit cards are not accepted.
** Vehicles above 7.5T are subject to an additional HGV levy (minimum £50/day) and may have higher insurance excess.
How do I pay the deposit?
- UK residents: Deposits can usually be paid by credit or debit card, depending on the vehicle. Some cars require credit card only, which is clearly marked in our quote system and on our website, for example:
- Non-UK residents: A credit card is required for all deposits, regardless of vehicle type.
- Cash deposits are not accepted. Hire charges and extensions can be paid in cash with prior agreement, but the deposit itself must be by card.
When is the deposit taken?
Your deposit (along with your hire charges) is taken at the commencement of hire, when you collect your vehicle from one of our depots.
When will my deposit be refunded?
Deposits are refunded once the vehicle has been returned, provided:
- The vehicle is returned within the agreed hire period
- It is returned with a full tank of fuel
- There is no damage, loss, or outstanding charges
Refund times depend on your bank, but it usually takes 3–5 working days for funds to clear back into your account.
How does Excess Damage Waiver (EDW) affect my deposit?
EDW is an optional add-on that reduces or removes your liability in the event of damage.
- With EDW, your deposit and excess are reduced (see table above for exact amounts).
- EDW is available only to UK licence holders aged 25+ with a clean driving record.
- EDW is not available to non-UK licence holders.
- EDW covers one incident/accident only.
Can deposits increase?
Yes, in certain circumstances your deposit may be higher than standard, for example:
- If you have licence endorsements
- If you live outside the local area
- If you are under 25
- For specific vehicle groups (e.g. hybrids, Sportage, HGVs)
Once you’ve provided more about you, our quote system will tell you if you might need to pay an increased deposit.
Quick answers – Deposit FAQs
- Is the deposit refundable? → Yes, provided terms are met.
- Can I pay Contactless or Apple/Google Pay? → NO, all payments must be made with Chip and Pin Authorisation.
- Can I pay with a debit card? → Yes, except for certain cars and for all non-UK residents.
- Do deposits vary by vehicle? → Yes – see the table above.
- When do I get my deposit back? → Typically 3–5 working days after return.
- Does EDW remove the deposit? → It reduces or lowers the amount, but you’ll still need to pay a deposit at the start of hire.
