The ultimate guide to hiring a minibus
Looking to hire a minibus for business or pleasure and don't know where to start? We've got you covered.
There are many reasons why you might want to hire a minibus. Whether you're taking a group to a wedding, a business conference or a music festival, it's a cost-effective and convenient way to get around. It also helps you keep your carbon emissions down.
If you've never hired one before, however, you may not be 100% clear about where to start and what to do. You may have vaguely heard that there are different types of minibuses, different driving licences and different types of deals.
It's less complicated than it might first appear. But it's still worth doing your research before signing a minibus hire agreement. Here are some key considerations to ensure you have a cost-effective and comfortable trip. From all of us here at MVH Rental, happy travels!
What do you need the minibus for?
Minibuses come in different sizes: typically between eight and 17 seats. The number of passengers taking part in your journey will determine the size of minibus you need.
Another factor affecting your booking is the nature of the journey. Do you know where you need to be picked up and dropped off? When do you need to leave and what time should you arrive? Do you have any flexibility with regard to timings?
Finally, you should consider whether you have any extra requirements. You need to make sure you have ample luggage space for all passengers. Moreover, any wheelchair users or other accessibility requirements need to be covered.
By clarifying your aims early on, you boost your chances of making a successful booking and enjoying a successful journey.
Who will drive?
Minibuses can be hired in two ways. The first is self-drive, with the person booking or someone in their group taking care of the driving. The other is to hire a minibus with a driver.
Self-drive can be a great choice if you're a confident and comfortable driver. If you go down this route, make sure you have the right category of driving licence. There's a full list on the
government website. You should also check that your journey falls within the
rules for minibus usage.
Alternatively, you can book a minibus with a driver. This will cost more but can take away some of the stress if you don't have a confident driver in your group.
Hiring a minibus for a charity or other volunteer group
You can hire a minibus to provide transport for a charity or other volunteer group. In this situation, you can also apply for a minibus permit to charge passengers.
This is usually only possible, however, if you can demonstrate that your organisation "benefits the community", if the minibus service is for the organisation alone (not the general public) and if the charges cover running costs and don't make a profit.
Driving a minibus for hire or reward
"Hire or reward" is a phrase referring to the exchange of money between the driver or organiser and the minibus passengers.
If you want to drive a minibus for hire and reward, you need to apply for a minibus provisional entitlement (also known as a "PCV") and a public service vehicle (PSV) operator licence.
If there's no hire or reward involved, a current car driving licence should enable you to drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats.
The full rules and conditions relating to hire or reward are on the
government website.
Bear in mind that some rental companies don't allow their vehicles to be used for hire or reward. That includes MVH Rental. You can
read our full terms and conditions here.
Shop around
As with so many things in life, it pays to shop around when hiring a minibus. This could involve directly contacting dealerships, looking online and using comparison sites.
It's worth remembering, however, that the price isn't everything. Of course, you want a cost-effective option. But there's no point going for the cheapest of the cheap if it means a rusty old minibus rented out to you by an unscrupulous firm.
Before committing to a minibus rental company, make sure they have a good safety record, positive testimonials and experience in the business. Once you're satisfied on these counts, you can move on to the specific requirements of your booking.
How to book
When booking a minibus, you have two main options. You can ring up or book online. You'll most likely have to pay a deposit.
Before you book, make sure to check and confirm the trip details. You should also carefully look through the rental agreement. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy, insurance and fuel policy before signing on the dotted line.
When to book
It's best to book in advance. This is partly because booking in advance can lead to better deals. It's also because there's typically greater availability, especially during peak holiday seasons.
If you can be flexible with dates, you may be able to unlock a better deal. Your best bet is to shop around and find the best deal for you and your group.
Get ready for your journey!
Now you've got your journey booked, there are a few things you should do to prepare.
If you're driving the minibus yourself, you should familiarise yourself with the vehicle. You should also confirm the route (including rest stops) and ensure all passengers are aware of the journey arrangements.
Insurance
If you're driving the minibus yourself, it's important to be insured. Most reputable companies will provide insurance, but you should always check the small print before you book.
Here at MVH Rental, we offer insurance and full RAC breakdown cover as part of our rental package. You have to pay extra, however, if you want a collision damage waiver.
Driving abroad
If you want to drive a minibus abroad, you need to check you're eligible to drive the vehicle in the country you're travelling to. It's best to contact the local licensing authority or check its website.
How much does a minibus cost to hire?
The simple answer is that it depends. Make sure to shop around, get quotes and speak directly to dealerships.
Are you looking for
minibus hire in Newcastle upon Tyne that won't cost the earth? MVH Rental is a trusted local name for high-quality, affordable rental vehicles. Call now for a quick quote on 0191 4888 700.
