There are many pros and cons to think about when It comes to Hire a PCO ready Car. Always different from the person to person and their circumstances.
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When it’s come to PCO Car Hire, the following questions you may ask yourself!
1. Is it worth to hire a PCO ready Car for my Private Hire Work?
2. Is it worth to buy a car for my Private Hire Driving?
3. Which car will be an excellent benefit for my Private Hire Work? Electric or Hybrid?
Well, we know it isn’t easy to choose with the current global situation.
That is why we believed that you could do some homework and rethink the options before any commitments. In this article, we will point out some pain points for PCO drivers, Uber drivers or private hire drivers before they rent a PCO ready vehicle.
After reading this article, you will be able to get a clear understanding about which option is suitable for your circumstance. Example hiring a PCO car or buying a PCO car.
Let’s dive into the positive sides of PCO Car Hire.
- No commitment for long terms, such as loan or lease.
- PCO Car hire comes with all-inclusive. It covers your private hire insurance cost and vehicle service.
- Able to swap or change the vehicle from time to time. After your contract period, or an emergency. (This is depends on PCO car hire company. Please check your contract documents before sign.)
- Selection of cars available. Full flexibility on choosing cars. Example high cost you can go for an electric car. If you have a limited renting budget, then you can select Hybrid for an affordable rental cost.
- Good for new PCO Drivers or Someone who want to try out Private hire driving.
For example, If you are a new driver, your Private Hire insurance may be skyrocketing. Renting a PCO car may be a viable option to gain some experience as a PCO Driver. At a later date, you can state and earn a No claim bonus for your insurance.
Now time to revel the negative side of PCO Car Hire.
- You will be paying for someone else fleet every week with your hard work. You must work at least two days, to pay the rent for that particular week.
- Since you are using your rented private hire car for private hire service. Some time you will get small damages or any corruption in the car, by the time of your return. You will be losing some part of your deposit, or some cases you may pay extra. Again, you are paying for someone else fleet to fix the issues.
- Some time, you will be liable to pay someone else damages if you failed to inspect the car during the rental process.
- Some time you will lose your No Claim Bonus for your insurance, and you keep paying a high premium per month. You may be depended on public transport after returning your rented vehicle.
- You will be paying an extra admin charge with PCN (Penalty Charge Notice) payment. Some companies pay your PCN and claim the amount with an admin fee. Some companies transfer the liable to you, and you need to wait for weeks to clear the PCN Charges.
Let’s revel the questions again, which we’ve stated at the beginning of this post.
Is it worth to hire a PCO ready Car for my Private Hire Work?
Yes, but depending on an individual circumstance and other commitments. Are you planning to drive short term, or you are a new driver to private hire work? If Your answer is “Yes”, then better to rent and try out.
This will allow you to understand the good and bad part also your commitments.
Is it worth to buy a car for my Private Hire Driving?
Are you planning to drive long term and Full-time? If “Yes”, then the answer is you better to buy. Here you will get better insurance quotes and grants. Positive direction to protect your no claims and gain no claim bonuses.
Since you are the vehicle’s registered keeper, you can sell the car a few years later and buy a new one. Maybe you can go to the Rent to Buy Lease plan.
Which car will be an excellent benefit for my Private Hire Work? Electric or Hybrid?
The Electric car is the good option. Also, it’s come with congestion and ULEZ exempt (more information available on the TfL website). Charging cost is cheaper than petrol. But make sure you are buying the Best Boot Capacity Electric Cars.
Planning to buy a brand-new electric car, then you can get some decent discounts, grants and support (more information available on the GOV UK website). So better to consider green free vehicle.
Conclusion
Final thoughts about the above situation (buying or renting) , we would like to express entirely depend on an individual circumstance. The decision is always in your hand.
Full-time self-employed drivers can go for a new electric car with adequate boot capacity. Part-time and newcomers, can try out with rented PCO Cars.
FAQs
What is private hire vehicle rental or PCO Car Hire in the UK?
It’s the process of renting a car specifically licensed for private hire work (like Working for Local Minicabs firms, Uber, Bolt, or other ride-hailing apps). These vehicles meet PCO (Public Carriage Office) standards or local council requirements, depending on your operating area.
What are the benefits of renting a PCO vehicle in the UK?
• Quick way to start earning as a driver without owning an appropriate vehicle.
• No long-term financial commitments of car ownership.
• Maintenance, insurance, and often road tax are included in rental fees.
• Access to newer, fuel-efficient or hybrid/electric vehicles.
What are the drawbacks of renting in the UK?
• No asset to build equity as you don’t own the vehicle.
• Weekly rental costs can add up over time.
• Might have restrictions on mileage or usage.
• You will be liable for car and tire damages
• You may not qualify for a No-Claim Bonus if you rent a PCO car with insurance.
What are the driver requirements to rent a PCO vehicle in the UK?
• Valid full UK driver’s license (held for a minimum period, often 1-3 years)
• Proof of eligibility to work in the UK
• PCO license issued by Transport for London (TfL) or your local council
• Clean driving record, background check (often a DBS check)
Is there an age limit for renters?
Yes, most rental companies have a minimum age requirement of 21, though some may require 25+.
How much does it cost to rent a PCO vehicle in the UK?
Costs vary based on location, vehicle type, insurance, and rental company. Expect a weekly fee ranging from ÂŁ130 to ÂŁ300+ plus a deposit.
What’s included in the PCO Car rental cost?
Typical inclusions are the car itself, comprehensive insurance, maintenance, road tax, and sometimes roadside assistance. Verify this with the rental company. Always read terms and conditions.
How long is the rental period?
Options range from weekly to long-term contracts (several months to a year).
How do I find PCO rental companies in the UK?
Search online for “PCO vehicle rental” plus your city. Platforms like Uber and Bolt may partner with rental companies. Click here and find out some reputable companies we have listed in the minicab and taxi directory.
Can I choose a specific car model for PCO Rental?
Companies offer a selection within a category (economy, hybrid, electric, etc.). Specific model guarantees may not be available.
Can I use the rental vehicle for personal use?
Typically, there are restrictions in place. It’s crucial to always verify the policy with the rental company. If you’re renting a PCO car with insurance, ensure to inquire about any restrictions imposed by the rental company regarding PCO insurance. If you opt for your own PCO insurance, you may be able to include social (or personal) use. Be sure to thoroughly review the rental terms and conditions.