To buy or not to buy? What to consider when purchasing your fleet cars.

Price, Performance, Efficiency; when adding new vehicles to your fleet there is naturally a lot to consider. Your commercial fleet is a statement of intent; a visual nod to the nature, mindset and intentions of your business. We know that choosing the correct vehicles can have a significant effect on your business and want you to have the best possible advice when it comes to making your decision, so here are some things to bear in mind – and we mean more than just the colour...

Unit price

While it might be a nice idea to have your drivers cruising around in Bentleys, there are certain practical considerations that must be taken into account when selecting the vehicles for your fleet. Perhaps the most obvious is the individual unit price; how many vehicles do you need and what are you willing to spend? It is tempting to employ the ‘cheaper the better’ philosophy, but remember, clients and members of the public will associate your fleet vehicles with the success and professionalism of your company, so your choice of car or van is very much a statement of intent. Conversely, don’t be tempted to buy an expensive vehicle that provides more than you need; if you run a bakery or a florists you’re unlikely to require a fleet of panel trucks.

Economy

Fuel consumption is an obvious consideration, particularly if your staff and drivers must travel long distances; it doesn’t pay to have your vehicles making constant trips to the pumps. Again there is a flipside to this, as a company handling heavy goods will be severely hampered by an underpowered vehicle. Remember to bear running costs in mind; how often does the vehicle need servicing? How frequently does the oil need changing? Whilst we deliver our oils across the UK and Eire, some parts manufacturers might not offer the same courtesy. Are the parts for your new vehicles easy to come by in your region?

Appearance

Not every company needs to put its drivers in luxury vehicles, but yours might. Think of what kind of statement you’re trying to make. If your firm deals with accountancy or law, then it would pay for your staff to appear prosperous and successful and this ought to be reflected in their vehicles. Conversely, if you run a building firm, your commercial vehicles would do well to connote solidity and practicality.

There are numerous variables to consider when purchasing your fleet cars, and of course there are no hard and fast rules. We hope that these suggestions help to inform your decision, but only you know the nature, status and ambitions of your business, and ultimately, only you can decide what vehicles are best suited for your fleet.