High-mileage journeys are part of PCO driving. While they bring you higher fares, they also cause the vehicle to wear down more quickly. This is one of the main reasons PCO car hire companies put weekly mileage caps on their hire agreements.
If you are a full-time PCO driver with ride-hailing as your main source of income, the mileage cap can limit the number of rides you complete and ultimately your income. Knowing how PCO hire agreements for high-mileage work can help you make informed choices.
Understanding PCO Hire Agreements
PCO car hire is a quick and affordable way to start driving and earning through a TfL-compliant car. It also saves you the financial responsibility of owning a vehicle. For instance, you get a fully insured, roadworthy car without the worry of depreciation and repairs. However, each agreement comes with certain mileage limits. It is critical for high-mileage drivers to carefully review their contracts to avoid any complications later on.
The Challenges of High-Mileage Driving
Long hours of driving every day leave the vehicle vulnerable to wear and tear and an increased likelihood of mechanical failures. The constant stress on components like brakes, tyres, suspension, and engine results in enormous maintenance costs and possible downtime.
High mileage driving also increases fuel costs that can significantly eat into your profits. Lastly, using a PCO car hire plan with a mileage cap means you may face penalties for exceeding your weekly mileage limit. Therefore, it’s important to choose a plan that matches your daily driving goals.
Mileage Allowances and How They Work
In most cases, PCO car hire agreements have mileage allowances, typically known as a daily or weekly cap. This is the limit you get for the fixed weekly fee you pay for the car. Exceeding this limit means you will have to pay additional charges for every extra mile you drive.
For high-mileage drivers, a generous or unlimited mileage cap is essential. It helps you avoid fines and keeps the vehicle affordable for long-term, frequent use. Ignoring the mileage cap while signing the contract can negatively affect your profits, especially if you drive long hours every day.
Maintenance Coverage in High-Mileage Hire Plans
Regular maintenance is important for drivers who focus on long-distance rides. Most all-inclusive hire agreements include scheduled servicing, repairs, and replacement vehicles.
For high-mileage drivers, it’s extremely valuable when maintenance is included in their hire plan as it relieves them of unnecessary, surprise repair costs.
Car problems are more likely to happen with long-distance driving. Therefore, confirming that your car is regularly inspected and maintained under your hire agreement will help avoid breakdowns and result in less downtime, which is important to improve your earnings.
Choosing the Right Car for High Mileage Driving
As a PCO driver, you should select a vehicle that can withstand daily, long-hour driving on the road. Look for a vehicle that’s fuel-efficient and has a good reliability score.
Nowadays, many PCO drivers choose hybrid and electric vehicles due to their low running costs and eco-friendliness. Comfort is also important for both drivers and passengers.
For drivers, it’s important because you spend long hours behind the wheel every day. An uncomfortable car could lead to physical or mental fatigue and make your shifts more stressful.
For passengers, comfort is important because they expect to travel in a relaxed environment, and discomfort could lead to negative ratings. A vehicle with good seating, smooth handling, and generous boot space will improve comfort, keep you fresh, and result in a pleasant passenger experience, which could result in repeat bookings.
Insurance Considerations for High-Mileage Drivers
Insurance for high-mileage drivers can be different from standard coverage. High mileage puts you at a higher risk of accidents, which may directly affect your excess and premium.
Always confirm that your hire agreement includes comprehensive insurance to protect yourself and the car in case of accidents. Comprehensive insurance is the only type of insurance that covers the driver, passengers, and third parties. All other types only offer partial coverage and may leave you vulnerable to unwanted costs at a car body shop in case of accidents.
Flexible Terms and Their Importance
As a high-mileage driver, you should look for hire agreements with flexible terms that allow you to adjust your driving patterns depending on the demand fluctuations or personal reasons.
Some agreements offer the option for an increased mileage limit or modifying the weekly payments during peak periods to help you take advantage of the rising demand without complications. With a flexible contract, you get less financial stress and can comfortably plan your work schedule.
Final Thoughts
In the end, choosing the right PCO hire plan for high-mileage is about balancing the cost, reliability, and flexibility. Selecting a hire plan that offers generous mileage with great support and regular maintenance helps you avoid unwanted expenses and improve your daily earnings. If your agreement is flexible and your car is well-maintained, you can complete more jobs with fewer interruptions, turning high mileage into a benefit instead of extra costs.
