How to Start a Car Hire Business in Kenya

By Ann Wanjiku On Sep 28, 2022

Today’s article will teach you all you need to know to start your successful car hire or rental business in Kenya.

There has been a rise in the number of individuals engaging in cars for special occasions like weddings, vacations, and road trips. Because of this, the car rental industry has become very lucrative. Your customers will include local/foreign tourists, field managers, the working class, corporate executives, and party-goers.

Your management abilities, marketing expertise, and perseverance will determine the success of your car hire business. Follow these steps to launch a successful car hire business in Kenya.

Starting a car hire business in Kenya

1. Conduct market research

Market research is crucial for understanding your target audience’s personality and purchasing habits. By doing so, you’ll be better able to comprehend your target market’s needs in terms of services.

2. Write a business plan

For your car rental business to be successful, you need to write a detailed business strategy. It’s useful for short-term and long-term objectives, budgeting, and business projection.

3. Choose a business niche

If you tailor your company to a particular market, you’ll find a lot of success. It will be apparent to your clients that you provide a unique car rental service. The most successful rental vehicle businesses cater to a specific market by offering specialized services.

4. Register your business

Businesses in Kenya are required by law to register with the government. This is crucial because it prevents others from stealing your Trademark and using it for their gain. In addition to establishing your legal identity, registering your company will allow you to open a business bank account.

5. Acquire a business license and an insurance cover

Each car hire business must be appropriately licensed. The local government in your area is the place to get all the required licenses and permits. You must also protect your hire car company with appropriate insurance coverage.

6. Identify a suitable business location

7. Buy or subcontract cars

The decision to invest in cars for hire business is one you may make, but doing so will need significant initial funding. Cars may be outsourced to reduce costs. Identify people who own cars and are interested in the rental car industry. Discuss the monthly payment arrangements and the amount you’ll be sending their way.

8. Marketing your car hire business

Successful businesses know that customer acquisition begins with a good marketing strategy. Paid advertisements on social media sites are an option. Asking for referrals is another effective method of advertising your automobile rental service. Every new customer they bring in earns them a discount. Posters, leaflets, and other printed materials may also be distributed locally.

Cost of starting a car hire business

The company can be launched with only one personal vehicle. But it has to be in good condition and ready to provide any conveniences the consumer requests. The minimum investment required by many new company owners is just Ksh 500,000.

Is car hire a profitable business in Kenya?

Yes, car hire is a profitable business in Kenya. Different cars have different charges; a small car charges from Ksh 3 000 to Ksh 8 000 daily. On the other hand, a 24-seater charges from Ksh 10 000 to Ksh 25 000 per day.

You might get a monthly income of Ksh 40,000 to Ksh 50,000 in the car hire business. However, you may increase your earnings from Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 100 000 monthly if you run the company. There is no denying the legitimacy of the car hire business. Luxury car rentals for special occasions like weddings may also increase your earnings.