A Step by Step Guide to Contract Hiring
1. Choose Your Car
I only select the cheapest deals, and I know I don't have the widest selection in the world (I don't want to waste your time with uncompetitive cars), but I usually list over 500 cars and vans. The primary difference between business and personal contract hire is just the VAT exclusion/inclusion in the price.
2. Fill in an online proposal (paper form also available)
You can get a printable or online version of my proposal form on the website. Because the proposal form contains so much information which you may have to look up, it is fully protected on a secure server and security certificate. If it's a paper form, I need it signed.
3. Fax or send the proposal form to me
When you have made sure you have completed ALL the information on the proposal form, press the submit button (duh!) on the online form, or fax the paper one to 0870 486 1130 or 0191 460 6302 (or scan and email it). I may require from business customers a copy of your latest accounts or P&L and balance sheet for the benefit of the finance company (I will advise you of this, it depends on a number of factors such as credit scoring, number of years trading, etc). From private customers, maybe I need a recent gas/water/electric bill, or bank statement to prove address, to prevent identity fraud. You will always need a copy of your full UK Driving Licence, or passport. I also use several other security measures (would be silly to disclose them here). I have never had a case of data theft.
4. Wait for an order form, then sign it
At this stage you will commit to the car. When finance approval has been completed, I will fax/email you an order form for your car. A signed order form commits you to ordering the car. Check it, print it, sign it, indicate your colour choice, then fax or scan/email it back to me. I then confirm and order the car and confirm the lead time.
5. Sign finance documents and wait for delivery of your car
Usually, I will post (for security reasons) documents to be signed before delivery of your car. These need to be completed and returned, swiftly, usually together with the initial payment. Occasionally, I will arrange delivery of your car with finance documents to be signed at the same time, but this is not typical. More proofs may be required. All this is to protect your identity. Delivery is free, usually to your home or work address, whichever is most convenient.
6. Enjoy your car!
You need to insure your car, but anyone you choose can drive it. Treat it as you would treat your own personal car. You have full UK manufacturer's warranty and whatever breakdown cover the manufacturer applies. Usually, servicing is your own responsibility. With all the money you have saved, book yourself a nice expensive holiday, or buy a diamond ring!
7. Prepare for, then return your car at end of contract
Simply, your car needs to be in a condition commensurate with its age and mileage. This is common sense. A useful guide wot I wrote (heh) is available in PDF format to read/print here. You just hand the car back. It is collected directly from you at your address.
Any Questions?