Long Term vs Short Term PCO Car Hire: Which Option is Better?
Whether you’re new to PCO driving or already have experience, choosing between short-term and long-term PCO car hire is an important decision. Each option offers different benefits depending on your goals, budget, and driving routine.
Short-term hire offers more flexibility with contracts lasting just a few weeks or months, making it ideal for beginners or part-time drivers. On the other hand, long-term hire typically provides better rates and premium vehicle access, perfect for full-time drivers who want consistency and lower weekly costs.
In this article, we’ll explore both options in detail to help you decide which hire plan suits your preferences.
Kia eNiro
£125/week
Kia Niro 2
£260/week
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Article Highlights
In this article, you will learn:
- What is short-term and long-term PCO car hire?
- Pros and cons of short-term and long-term PCO car hire.
- The better choice between the two.
What is Short-Term PCO Car Hire?
Short-term PCO hire allows drivers to rent a private hire vehicle for a brief period, usually from 8 weeks up to 3 months. It’s designed for drivers who need flexibility, are testing the waters with PCO work, or only want to drive during busy seasons.
Pros of Short-Term PCO Car Hire
Low Commitment
Short-term hire allows new and part-time drivers to try PCO driving without committing for a long time. You don’t need to buy a new car or get locked into a 12-month contract. Just go to a PCO car hire company, show the required documents, and you are good to go. If it works, great! If it doesn’t, you return the keys and walk away clean.
Test Different Vehicles
One of the advantages of short-term hire is the chance to test different cars before committing. For instance, you can try before you decide whether you’re looking for better fuel efficiency, more comfort for short city rides, or a spacious 7-seater for long-distance jobs. It’s a smart way to find the right fit for your driving style and budget.
Low Risk
The nature of PCO work can be unpredictable. Some weeks may be busy, while others may have fewer ride requests. Short-term hire lets you pause or switch vehicles during slower periods, helping you manage your costs more effectively.
Cons of Short-Term PCO Car Hire
Higher Weekly Costs
Short-term car hire is generally more expensive than long-term plans. This is because every time a car is returned, the car provider has to prepare it for the next driver. This means more cleaning, inspections, maintenance, and paperwork.
Limited Vehicle Availability
Premium vehicles connect you with high-paying passengers. However, many short-term PCO hire options don’t include any premium vehicles. You will mostly get standard models that could limit your earning potential.
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Short-term or long-term, Fleeto’s got you covered.
Less Negotiating Power
Drivers on short-term plans don’t usually get discounts or custom packages. These agreements often have fixed rates and terms that the rental company sets, giving you little room to bargain.
While most PCO hire companies stick to fixed rates and rigid terms for short-term plans, Fleeto takes a more driver-friendly approach. We understand that every PCO driver’s situation is different, so we offer flexible options, competitive pricing, and personalised support even for short-term hire. Let’s connect to find a plan that suits your schedule and helps you maximise your earnings.
What is Long-Term PCO Car Hire?
Long-term PCO hire lets you rent a licensed vehicle for an extended period, often 6 months to a year or more. This option is best for full-time private hire drivers looking for stable weekly payments and access to higher-quality vehicles.
Pros of Long-Term Vehicle Rentals
Lower Weekly Rates
Long-term vehicle rentals usually have lower weekly fees compared to short-term agreements. That’s because the car providers consider long-term drivers less risky, as they help companies lower downtime and avoid extra inspections and paperwork.
Stronger Relationship with the Hire Company
Sticking with a car hire company for a long time helps you build trust with them. Over time, this can lead to faster support, flexible payment plans, and early access to new cars. Just make sure you pay the rent on time and use the vehicle carefully.
Greater Vehicle Availability
Long-term agreements often provide a wider range of vehicles, including the latest and premium models. This gives you the choice to pick a vehicle that aligns with your preferences for comfort and daily earnings.
Cons of Long-Term PCO Car Hire
No Ownership
Unlike buying a vehicle, long-term hire does not help you build an asset unless a rent to buy option is specifically included in the contract. You will end up paying significant money over months or years without owning the vehicle.
Fixed Payment Obligation
With a long-term contract, you must pay a fixed weekly fee throughout the term. Even if your earnings drop due to illness or low demand, you are locked into the contract.
Limited Vehicle Switching
You are committed to the same car for a long time. If a new model becomes available or if your needs change, you can’t switch the car.
Note: Some car providers allow car swapping during the contract period, but usually at an extra cost.
Comparing the Two Options Side by Side
Feature | Short-Term Hire | Long-Term Hire |
Commitment | 8 weeks to 3 months | 6 months to over a year |
Weekly Cost | Higher | Lower |
Vehicle Options | Basic to mid-range | Premium, executive |
Ideal for | New, casual, or part-time drivers | Full-time and experienced drivers |
So, Which Option to Choose?
The choice depends on your needs and earning goals.
Choose Short-Term Hire if:
- You’re just starting out and want to see if PCO work suits you.
- You only plan to drive for a few weeks or months.
- You want the freedom to walk away at any time.
Choose Long-Term Hire if:
- You’re a full-time PCO driver.
- You want to reduce your weekly vehicle expenses.
- You prefer high fare categories like Uber Exec or Lux.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is hiring a PCO car worth it?
Hiring a PCO-ready car is worth it if you don’t own a car. It’s a simple way to get a TfL-approved car without the hassle of insurance, maintenance, and MOTs.
Should I hire a PCO car for long term?
If you plan to stick to a car for long term, consider the rent-to-buy option instead of hiring it, as it helps you build an asset over time.
Who else can drive my PCO car?
Only you, the driver, can drive the car. Allowing anyone else to drive it could be considered a contract violation.
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Ready to Choose a Plan That Works for You? Get in Touch With Fleeto.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to switch providers, we offer flexible PCO car hire plans built around your needs. From short-term flexibility to long-term stability, we help you pick the right path based on your driving goals, budget, and daily routine. So, get in touch today and take the next step with confidence.
