Despite the financial difficulties the coronavirus outbreak brought, the year 2020 also saw an astonishing 835,494 new company incorporations in the UK, or almost 2,282 new enterprises each day, from January 2020 to January 2023. 1 You’re not alone if you’re thinking about changing careers or if recent events have inspired you to start your own business. If operating a chauffeur business appeals to you, you may provide transportation for the following events:
- Weddings
- Executive conferences and get-togethers
- Tours
- Dinner and dancing occasions
- Birthday celebrations;
- Prom nights
There are numerous factors to think about and much planning to be done. Here is our succinct guide to starting a chauffeur service.
Do you have the makings of a chauffeur?
Chauffeur Service London involves much more than just getting someone from A to B. Yes, you must be a proficient driver with a current DVLA license, but personality and effective communication skills are equally important. You must be dedicated and ready to put in long hours, often on very short notice. It’s crucial to be dependable because disappointing even one customer can seriously harm your reputation. In addition to the likelihood that customers won’t utilize you again, you’ll miss out on referrals to rival businesses.
Training programs include the contrasts between being a driver and being a hired chauffeur, as well as the personal qualities needed.
Conduct research
Have a clear understanding of the clientele you hope to draw. Look into the market to see whether there are any other businesses providing services to these customers. Do you have something to offer that they don’t in terms of services? If there is no competition, ask yourself why. Could it be because there isn’t a high enough demand for chauffeur service?
You’ll know exactly what kind of car you need to buy and how much to charge for your services once you’ve chosen your target market. Be reasonable with your pricing; if you set it too high, you’ll be out of people’s price ranges and too cheap, you’ll be undervaluing your services.
Costs
Aside from the initial cost of purchasing your vehicle, there are other setup and ongoing expenses to take into account: license for both you and your automobile (some local governments need inspections every two years), tax, maintenance, and insurance.
It’s crucial to have the appropriate insurance in place.
The hazards you experience, many of which aren’t covered by conventional auto insurance, are protected by chauffeur insurance, a type of specialized insurance. Protection for you, the driver, your car, and your passengers may be provided through chauffeur insurance.
You should think about safeguarding yourself from additional threats. These consist of:
• Public liability – to assist with paying legal costs and damages in the event that a customer or member of the public is injured or has property damaged as a result of your work and files a claim against you.
• Breakdown coverage – in the event that your car breaks down, this will assist you get back on the road or lessen the impact on your clients’ travel plans.
• Coverage for multiple vehicles – if you operate two to five vehicles, it could be easier and more cost-effective to cover them all under one policy with a single renewal date.
Promoting your limo service
You must inform people about your company whenever you are ready to launch it. An significant marketing budget is not necessary. In fact, you should try to minimize costs in the initial phases. Make a basic, welcoming, and informative website to start; make sure it is Google-friendly. 2 Social media offers numerous options for you to spread the word about the services you provide and for your clients to promote your business.
Being a chauffeur may be a rewarding and successful business venture. Before you start spending, it is worthwhile to do some research and planning.
Get assistance finding the appropriate chauffeur insurance?
We can assist you if you are unsure of the kind and extent of chauffeur insurance you require.
Before identifying the insurance options that best suit your unique business requirements, our knowledgeable team is always available to work with you to fully comprehend the dangers you face and the protection you require.
So why not check out our expert chauffeur insurance or get in contact to discuss your requirements for chauffeur insurance.
