car rental KenMcCall
MANAGING DIRECTOR EUROPCAR UK
Choosing a car hire partner
Keeping business travellersonthe road
The insurance industry is a significant user of business travel facilities. Ken McCall provides some useful advice on the points to consider when selecting the best car hire partner
ar hire plays a fundamental role in efficient and cost- effective business travel. Insurance industry professionals represent a reasonable proportion of business travellers, and a wealth of experience has been accumulated regarding the specific requirements of this particular sector of the business travel market, with reference to fitting in with tight schedules and offering flexible vehicle solutions.
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Simple car hire The hire process needs to be as simple as possible - and should begin even before the driver gets in the car. It’s important to look for a provider who offers online hire management tools, which allow individuals or companies to log on and manage their car hire needs. A good online reservation and hire management system should provide the facility to arrange hire for a future date; extend the period of a current hire; or request that
the vehicle be collected. For companies this can prove invaluable, as a single registered user can manage car hire for the entire organisation, streamlining the process within their business.
Tight schedules Business travellers need car hire solutions that can fit in with hectic schedules. It’s worth checking therefore, that facilities at airports and railway stations include pick-up and drop-off. One- way car hire to airports and cities is also invaluable for those needing to make a quick and convenient connection.
Save time
Delivery and collection of a hire car can save business travellers an essential commodity - time. Business travellers can also ensure they are at the head of the queue with priority reservations, which means a vehicle can be delivered on the same day. And in
some cases a vehicle can be delivered the same day even if a reservation is made after 4pm.
Booking insurance Whilst the majority of car hire companies will provide third party liability cover and a theft waiver, business travellers may also want to consider other insurance options such as a zero insurance excess and cover for easily damaged items like windscreens, glass and tyres.
Topupyourtank It’s worth looking for a car hire company that supplies its vehicles with a full tank of petrol. This gives business travellers the choice to return it full, or pay for the fuel up front and return it empty and is definitely recommended for rentals of three days or more because it means drivers don’t have to worry about refuelling before returning the car, which is also more cost- effective.
Staying loyal
Rewards for commitment to a brand are available. These can include discounts on hire and a range of other business travel services. Such schemes can also be particularly beneficial to business travellers because they help streamline the hire process, avoid queues, and eliminate the need for paperwork.
Keeping green
The environment continues to be a key issue for many
companies, so it’s vital to use a car hire company that keeps this at the top of its agenda. CO2 emission and performance data by car group enables customers to make informed choices when hiring. Above all else, business travellers value speed, convenience and service. By taking this advice, insurance industry professionals can ensure that their car hire meets all their needs - whatever their journey.
16 insurancepeople JULY/AUGUST 2011
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