Hiring a car for a business trip: 5 things to think about

Choosing a rental car for a business trip can be very different to choosing your personal or family car.

You may have bought many cars over the years, both for personal and family use, each time taking many factors into consideration. When hiring a car for business use, it's equally important to think about what will best suit your needs. By planning ahead like this, you can avoid potential problems further down the line. 



Depending on the circumstances, it may mean hiring something quite different to what you are used to. However, it's important to consider whether the car is suitable for the needs of your trip, your destination and your client.

Let's consider a few areas to help determine the type of car you'll need for your business trip.

1. Your destination

One of the first considerations is this: where are you travelling to?

While your personal preference may be for a larger car, if you're travelling to a busy city centre, a smaller car may be a wiser option.

Small cars usually handle with more agility, making them easier to drive on busy roads. They are more responsive, are easier to park and are generally more fuel-efficient.

2. Parking

Consider what parking will be available at your destination. 

Again, a smaller car may be easier to park in side streets or car parks, which often have designated compact spaces.

Some research beforehand will be useful. And local council websites are a good place to start.

Newcastle City Council, for instance, offers advice on parking permits, bus lanes, multi-storey car parks and off-street parking bays. It also provides parking maps.

Tap your destination into Google to see what advice is available.

3. Carpooling

We've looked at several reasons why a smaller car may be more useful – but what if you're carpooling? In fact, why consider carpooling at all?

Unless your passengers are children, more people means you'll need more legroom. And this means you'll need to hire a larger car. 

Carpooling is not only an efficient way to commute but also has several environmental benefits. When multiple people share a ride, it reduces the number of vehicles on the road, which in turn reduces traffic congestion and decreases the amount of harmful pollutants in the air. 

For a small company, it offers the chance to be cost-efficient. Carpooling can help you save money on fuel costs, tolls and charges.

For the individual, it can also mean less driving stress. For a start, you can share the driving between two or more people. (But be sure to tell the rental firm about these additional drivers when you make contact – they'll need to be added to the rental agreement for insurance purposes.)

Or perhaps one of your party is nervous about driving in an unfamiliar environment. They'll surely appreciate your thoughtfulness in allowing them to enjoy the ride as a passenger.

From a practical perspective, many cities have multiple occupancy lanes, encouraging carpooling and reducing congestion waiting times. Travelling in this manner would also likely make a good impression on a client concerned about environmental issues.

Bear in mind, though, that more passengers mean more luggage. So, think about how much luggage space you will need. Will a large saloon be better than an SUV? 

Your car hire firm will be able to advise you on this matter.

4. Aesthetics

Think about the client and how you want to present yourself.

Business success can depend on making a lasting impression on a client and first impressions count.

Driving a luxury car can be a powerful tool in demonstrating professionalism and credibility. Arriving in a sleek, well-maintained car instantly elevates your professional image, signals you take your business seriously and shows you're willing to invest in the tools that support your success. 

A good car conveys stability and reliability, enhances overall client and customer experience and provides a comfortable and enjoyable environment that makes clients feel valued and well-cared for during business interactions.

On the other hand, what if sustainability is important to the client?

Arriving in what could appear to be a gas guzzler would immediately alienate a client before you even step out of the car. 

Again, a small car may be more suitable if the meeting is in the city as it would give the impression of being more economical than, for example, an SUV in this setting. 

A client who favours the environment over looks will not mind the smaller interior.

5. Sustainability

Why is sustainability important?

Every day we are bombarded with information on how to live more sustainably. 

So, can we hire a car for a business trip and still consider the impact on the environment?

Some of the things we have already considered have an impact on this. Leaving our large family car at home and choosing a smaller one for an inner-city trip or carpooling with our colleagues are all steps in the right direction.

If your meeting is some distance away, what about travelling by train and hiring a car at your destination?

Also, don't forget that hire cars are generally newer models. This means they're more likely to be EPA-certified and therefore less polluting.

Conclusion

Renting a car when travelling for business is a great option, allowing independence and flexibility in your schedule. 

Choosing the right vehicle can help to make your trip successful.

At MVH Rental, we offer car hire in the northeast of England. Why not browse our different types of rental cars, including economy, estate and premium cars? Whether you've made your choice or you're still unsure, give our friendly team a call and we will be pleased to help.