Own vehicle or rented vehicle: which is better for TVDE?

One of the first decisions when starting in TVDE is choosing how you will operate with a vehicle: using your own vehicle or opting for a rented vehicle.

There is no single correct answer. The best option depends on your profile, financial situation, and how much operational risk you are willing to take.

This article explains the differences to help you make an informed decision.

Working with your own vehicle

What it means

Working with your own vehicle means using a car that already belongs to you (or to your company) to operate in TVDE.

Advantages of using your own vehicle

• Lower fixed costs in the long term

  You do not pay a weekly or monthly rental fee.

• Greater autonomy

  You have full control over the vehicle and how it is used.

• No rental deposit required

  There is no deposit associated with vehicle rental.

Disadvantages of using your own vehicle

• High initial investment

  Purchasing the vehicle or financing it.

• Risk of breakdowns and downtime

  If the vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, you may be unable to work.

• Maintenance and wear costs

  Maintenance, tires, inspections, and depreciation are your responsibility.

• Mandatory TVDE insurance

  You must contract and manage the appropriate insurance for TVDE activity.

Typical profile for own vehicle

Using your own vehicle usually makes sense if:

• You already own a vehicle that meets TVDE requirements

• You can financially handle unexpected expenses

• You aim to reduce costs in the medium or long term

• You work regularly and consistently

 

Working with a rented vehicle

What it means

Working with a rented vehicle means using a vehicle provided by Bluwalk to operate in TVDE, in exchange for a periodic rental payment.

Advantages of a rented vehicle

• No high initial investment

  You do not need to buy a vehicle upfront.

• Lower operational risk

  In case of breakdown or accident, replacement solutions are предусмотрed.

• Predictable costs

  You know in advance how much you will pay weekly or monthly.

• Insurance included

  Rented vehicles already include the appropriate TVDE insurance.

Disadvantages of a rented vehicle

• Fixed recurring cost

  You must pay the rental fee regardless of how much you work.

• Rental deposit required

  A deposit is required at the beginning of the contract.

• Less flexibility

  The rental agreement includes specific rules and conditions.

Typical profile for rented vehicle

Renting a vehicle is usually the best option if:

• You are just starting in TVDE

• You do not own a suitable vehicle or capital to invest

• You want to reduce risk and uncertainty

• You prefer predictable costs and fewer operational concerns

 

Quick comparison

Own vehicle

• Initial investment: High

• Ongoing costs: Variable

• Downtime risk: High

• Insurance: Managed by the driver

• Deposit: No

Rented vehicle

• Initial investment: Low

• Ongoing costs: Fixed

• Downtime risk: Reduced

• Insurance: Included

• Deposit: Yes

 

Which option is best for you?

There is no universally correct choice.

• If you value stability, predictability, and lower risk, renting a vehicle may be the best option.

• If you already own a vehicle and are prepared to handle costs and risks, using your own vehicle can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Many drivers start with a rented vehicle and later switch to an own vehicle once their activity is stable and predictable.

 

Next steps

To help you decide, we also recommend reading:

• How vehicle rental works at Bluwalk

• Rental deposit: payment, rules and refund

• Requirements to operate with your own vehicle

• TVDE insurance options

If you have specific questions about your situation, our team can help you evaluate the best option.