FIRST TAXI: New taxi drivers should consider more than just the rental cost when choosing first cab
- Perry Richardson
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 9
New drivers entering the taxi industry will need to consider several aspects and look beyond just rental prices when selecting their first vehicle and garage.
For many new drivers, especially those operating in cities like London, the choice of vehicles is limited. The capital offers only a handful of approved options including the LEVC TX, LTC TX4, Mercedes Vito, and a small number of fully electric Nissan Dynamos.
Although the rental price is often the first thing that drivers consider, veteran cabbies would argue it should not be the only factor guiding their decision. A garage’s reputation and how well it maintains its fleet can be just as important. A poorly maintained vehicle can lead to breakdowns, costing drivers valuable working hours and the hassle of arranging replacements.
Another consideration is the card payment terminal fitted in the taxi. Different payment units can result in varying commission fees, with some taking a larger cut than others.
Some rental vehicles come with advertising on them, which can help reduce rental costs in some cases. While not to everyone’s taste, this advertising brings in additional revenue for garages and can mean lower fees for drivers.
Garage size and location also matter. A larger fleet often means quicker vehicle replacements in case of a fault. Meanwhile, using a garage based near the driver’s usual operating area or where they live can make it easier to carry out regular checks and payments.
Drivers might also want to check the garage’s policy on flexibility. Some garages offer the option to return a long-term rental temporarily, for example during holidays, while others are less flexible. Insurance excess payments and other terms should also be reviewed and compared before signing any agreement.
