Business Vehicle Hire Made Simple for Sole Traders & Startups

Need a reliable van or car without the long-term debt? We match you with independent UK suppliers who specialize in flexible, 28-day+ hire—perfect for new businesses and the self-employed.

Request a Vehicle

Keep Your Cash

Don’t tie up your vital tools and stock money in a massive deposit.
Our partners offer low-entry hire terms designed to help you get moving today without draining your bank account.

Total Flexibility

Change when you need to. Won a bigger contract or need to downsize?
Return your vehicle after the initial 28 days with zero exit fees or "early termination" penalties—unlike a 3-year lease.

Ideal for Courier & Delivery businesses managing peak demand without long-term debt.

No Maintenance Stress

Every hire includes road tax, 24/7 breakdown cover, and manufacturer-standard maintenance.
If the van needs a service or repair, it's covered. You focus on your customers; we keep you on the road.

For more on whats included looked at our FAQ's

Testing Your Business Model

Start trading today with minimal risk. If the business pivots, your vehicle commitment can pivot with you.

Replacing Personal Vehicles

Move from an unreliable personal car to a VAT-deductible, fully maintained commercial vehicle that keeps your personal and business finances separate

Contract-Based Scaling

Won a 6-month contract? Get a work-ready van without being stuck with it for 3 years after the job is done.

Perfect for Trades & Contractors needing work-ready vans for fixed-term projects.

Scale Up

Established for over 3 years? You may qualify for our SME & Medium Business solutions which may offer enhanced multi-vehicle fleet rates.

Trust & Transparency: How We Match You

A Simple, Human-Led Process

We don't believe in "one-size-fits-all" computer algorithms. Every enquiry is reviewed by a real person who understands the UK vehicle hire market.

Vetted Independent Suppliers: We only work with reputable, independent UK hire companies that meet strict standards for vehicle quality and customer service.
No Hard Credit Search to Start: Submitting an enquiry through Unified Vehicle Hire does not impact your personal credit score. We look for a supplier that fits your profile before any formal applications are made.
Transparent Introductions: Once we find a match, you deal directly with the supplier. There are no hidden "middle-man" fees—you get the same professional rates as established fleets.
Expert Guidance: If your first choice isn't available or your credit profile is a challenge, we use our network knowledge to suggest alternative suppliers who are more likely to say "Yes".

Can I hire a vehicle if my business is less than 6 months old?

Yes. Unlike traditional contract hire, many of our independent suppliers have a specific appetite for startups and can provide flexible solutions based on a simple on boarding process.

Is maintenance included in the monthly price?

Absolutely. All business hire through our platform includes Road Fund Licence (Tax), breakdown cover, and manufacturer-scheduled maintenance as standard.

What documents do I need to get started?

Generally, you will need a valid UK Driving Licence, proof of business (like a UTR number or business bank statement), and a proof of address. Our suppliers will guide you through the specific requirements.

Can I hire a van with a new business UTR number?

Yes. Our network includes specialist suppliers who accept new startups. Typically, you'll just need your UTR, a valid UK driving license, and recent bank statements to verify your trading status.

I’ve only just started trading. Can I still get a vehicle?

Many of our partners specialize in helping new businesses. While big leasing companies often say no, our independent suppliers focus on your current business bank statements and valid UK driving licence.

How long do I have to keep the vehicle?

The minimum hire is typically 28 days. After that, you can keep it as long as you need on a rolling basis, or return it whenever your project ends.

What do I need to provide to get matched?

To get started, you'll generally need your UK Driving Licence, a recent utility bill as proof of address, and 3 months of business or personal bank statements.

I’m a brand new startup; can I still get a vehicle?

Yes. Our suppliers are "startup-friendly" and look at your current business activity rather than requiring 3 years of accounts.

What documents will I need?

Typically this includes:

Photo ID (driving licence)
Proof of address
Business details (UTR or Companies House if applicable)
Insurance details (if not supplier-provided)

Requirements vary by supplier.

Do I need a limited company to hire a vehicle?

No. Sole traders and partnerships can hire vehicles. Limited companies are not required.

Do I need business insurance in place before enquiring?

Not always. Some suppliers can arrange insurance, while others require you to insure the vehicle yourself once approved.

Will I need to pay a deposit?

Some suppliers require a deposit, others don’t. This depends on your profile, vehicle type, and hire length.

Is payment required upfront for new businesses?

Often yes. New startups and sole traders are commonly asked to pay the first rental period in advance.

Can I hire without a credit account?

Yes. Many suppliers work on upfront or rolling payments rather than credit terms for newer businesses.

Can I hire a vehicle short-term as a startup?

Yes. Short-term and flexible hire options are available, subject to supplier availability.

Can I extend the hire if my business grows?

In most cases, yes. Many suppliers offer extensions or longer-term options once the hire is underway.

Is this the same as leasing or contract hire?

No. Vehicle hire is typically more flexible and shorter-term than leasing, which often requires stronger credit and longer commitments.

What types of vehicles can sole traders hire?

This includes:

Small, medium and large vans
Lutons
Specialist vehicles (subject to availability)
Cars (in some cases)

Can I hire multiple vehicles as a new business?

Sometimes. This depends on supplier appetite and your circumstances. We’ll assess this as part of your enquiry.

How quickly will a supplier contact me?

Suppliers are expected to make contact within 48 hours of receiving an enquiry.