Lorry and Truck Size Guide Singapore

When it comes to the logistics of transporting cargo, size does matter. Much more than bigger is better or the more the merrier, the right size for the job is paramount in every instance. After all, there is little utility to be gained in bringing a 24 ft box truck to carry just a few cardboard cartons from place to place. As commercial vehicles, its primary function is to fulfill the business need of transporting items to different destinations. The job could entail moving a variety of items – some perishable or fragile, others much less so. Consequently, commercial vehicles come in a wide variety of designs to serve specific needs or a combination of requirements. There are trucks and lorries that have cargo beds that are opened to the elements, some that are partially covered with a canopy and there are others that are fully enclosed box trucks. With a bewildering array of configurations to choose from, getting acquainted with what is available makes picking one just right for the job a lot easier.


Lorry and Truck Size Guide

The word truck and lorry are both common terms in the haulage industry and are often used interchangeably to refer to Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and certain models of Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) like the Toyota Hiace, especially when in a flatbed configuration.

In Singapore, commercial vehicles are grouped into 4 categories:

  • Goods-cum-Passenger Vehicles (GPVs) are the smallest class of commercial vehicles reaching an allowable maximum 5,000kg in maximum laden weight (MLW). As its name suggests, GPVs are permitted to carry both goods and passengers.
  • Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) are allowed an MLW of up to 3,500kg for carrying goods
  • Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) fall in the range of 3,501 kg to 16,000kg in MLW.
  • Very Heavy Goods Vehicles (VHGVs) are vehicles with MLW of more than 16,000kg.


What is the difference?

Weight is one classification used to describe the dimension of commercial vehicles but the other common method is length. For instance, some standard sizes include the 10ft lorry, 14ft lorry and 24ft truck.

The 2 main factors to consider are budget and shifting when deciding which to buy or rent. Using a truck with a capacity larger than what is needed costs more to buy or rent, uses more fuel and is restricted in terms of parking or access. This might mean that more man power is required to move items to where the vehicle is parked. Shifting within a truck that has too much unused space can also be a problem, especially if the items placed inside are fragile and cannot be secured properly. Often, this means more time needed for stuffing – the process by which goods are loaded – and having to purchase additional packing material or cushioning.

A good way to roughly determine which size to get is from volume calculators provided online. Generally speaking, a 10 ft truck is the minimum needed for a studio apartment. A 2-room apartment might get away with a 14 ft truck but a 5-room home would necessitate the use of a 24 ft truck. Of course, multiple trips can be made instead of a single journey but that all adds up in time and transport costs.

Aside from size, each class of commercial vehicles possess different attributes, perform different functions, attract different taxes and have their own regulations.


Configurations For Your Box Truck Rental

The right tool for the job ensures that the assignment can be completed compently. There are several popular makes and models that dominate this market segment, such as the Toyota Dyna or Hiace, the Nissan NV series, Isuzu and Kia. European brands such as MAN, Scania, Volkswagen and Volvo are also favourite choices.

The most common depiction of a lorry or truck is the one that features a no-frills cargo bed behind the driver’s cabin. It is either completely open, without a canopy, or is semi-covered with scaffolding on both sides that support a metal or tarpaulin roof to keep out the elements. These are used to quickly load goods, equipment or workers and to facilitate the quick unloading of the same. As it is not completely protected from the environment, it is most suitable for transportation over short distances.

For transporting large volumes of building materials like soil, gravel or mineral ores a dump truck is the most appropriate choice as it features a large cargo area similar to a box truck. However, the most important feature are hydraulic arms that can tilt the cargo compartment and quickly empty its contents by pouring it onto the ground or another receptacle.

The box truck is another often seen configuration. As its name suggests, it sports a fully enclosed box as its cargo area. This provides more protection for its contents and also allows for it to be climate controlled, such as a freezer truck or “reefer” to deliver fresh produce. Other handy options include mechanised tailgates that can act as a forklift which helps with loading. There are also non-mechanised versions such as a fold out ramp that allows trolleys into the cargo area, thus eliminating the need to physically lift goods by hand onto the truck.

With a wide array of styles and sizes to choose from, box truck rentals can be tricky to get right but a good place to start is to fully understand the nature of the task at hand. In this way, an optimal balance of budget, capacity and functionality can be achieved when deciding on that big investment into a commercial vehicle. Another sound choice to avoid a wrong investment is to rent or lease a commercial vehicle at a reputable leasing company. In this way, a business owner can try out several different options or do a short term rental while figuring which vehicle is the best choice for the business.

The importance of servicing for your Mercedes

Turning a key in your Mercedes Benz’s ignition causes a number of systems to kick into action. The starter system activates the engine. The engine system turns petrol into mechanical energy to turn the wheels that make your Mercedes go zoom, while the electrical system ensures all components such as lights, computer and on board instruments work flawlessly. What one does not usually expect is that the vehicle remains unresponsive – unable to spring into action upon command, especially if it is a renowned luxury brand such as Mercedes. There are several things the car owner can do to prevent this, with one of the most important being regular car servicing at a Mercedes Singapore service centre or a qualified third-party workshop to keep his ride in good shape. This ensures each of the 8 systems that keep a car running smoothly, remains trouble free.


What is included in Mercedes service packages

This quarter yearly inconvenience staves off greater inconvenience further down the road by extending the service life of the vehicle and its effectiveness by addressing any problems that are detected during the checks carried out during servicing. For a Mercedes, car service on a regular basis is important for 2 key reasons. These are performance vehicles that operate according to precise German standards within a given set of operation parameters, with an emphasis on performance that Mercedes is famous for. Depending on how it is driven, this generally puts greater strain on the mechanical components, especially in intermittent city-type traffic and in tropical conditions that are both hot and humid. Preventative maintenance is therefore a very important aspect of car ownership and regular servicing, integral to proper, uninterrupted function.

Vehicle servicing can be purchased as a package which throws in incentives like savings on a bundle price and freebies or it can be obtained as individual servicing sessions. In both cases, there is a relatively standard set of checks and procedures that are carried out.

Mercedes service packages usually include the following:

Functionality Checks
Wiper

  • Horn
  • Headlamp and signal lights
  • Tyre
  • Belt condition

Replacement and Top-up
Changing engine oil

  • Changing air filter
  • Replacing spark plugs
  • Replacing engine coolant
  • Replacing brake fluid
  • Replacing power-steering fluid


Diagnostic Tests

  • Alternator
  • Battery load test
  • Control Units Functional Check


What Could Go Wrong without Maintenance

It seems everyone knows of that one friend who has an absolutely hand-off approach with his car. It never gets washed and goes years without servicing. In spite of this, it seems to run without a hitch, day after day. However, what goes on underneath the hood could tell a different story and the car could be just a day away from a catastrophic breakdown.

Servicing essentially comprises 2 areas which is replacing consumable items such as fluids and items worn out through usage and the other is to detect abnormalities or problems that are not yet critical but will lead to complications. Examples such as a worn out alternator belt, damaged suspension or cracked CV boot would not immediately cause a car to stall but it would result in serious problems if left unattended for some time. Technicians could also fine tune computer controlled actions such as the firing of the spark plug at the most optimal time, to get the best performance of the vehicle.

Among the standard items that are changed (~10,000km) during every service appointment is engine oil. Along with that at slightly different intervals (~30,000km), engine coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid. Without engine oil, the engine would be damaged as there is no lubrication as the piston moves inside the combustion chamber. The constant rubbing would compromise the tight seal around the chamber, resulting in a loss of power and eventually a damaged engine. Lack of coolant in the radiator leads to overheating and causes the car to stall. Insufficient transmission fluid causes rough gear changes, while brakes and power steering would be lost without the appropriate fluids for both, potentially leading to serious accidents. Aside from that, damage caused to these components can also be costly to fix or replace, definitely a lot more expensive than paying for regular maintenance.

Tyres are seldom given significant thought and more often only looked at only when there is a flat but it is one of the most critical components of ongoing care in any car. Pattern of wear gives a good indication on how a car is running and what condition its systems are in. For example, uneven wear patterns could point towards an issue with wheel alignment, tire balancing, or even suspension problems. Keeping tyres inflated to the recommended pressure level, balanced, rotated, and wheels properly aligned, can help avoid the extremely dangerous occurrence of blowouts at high speeds.

Other critical parts of the car are the battery, alternator, brakes, and suspension. During regular servicing, these should be checked for its condition. Any one of these items in a faulty condition would cause the car to break or be dangerous to operate. Finally with many modern Mercedes models, the Electronic Control Units are akin to the brains of the whole machine. Several systems such as the electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, to the in-car entertainment, to the advanced safety features and sensors that enhance safety when driving on the road are controlled by an electronic control unit. A service technician with the appropriate diagnostic tools are able to fine tune the settings to ensure everything is working well.

In summary, there are many advantages to visiting the Mercedes service center that make the expense worthwhile. The risks of not servicing one’s vehicle is the incurrence of extra cost. A well serviced car can consume fuel more efficiently, using less petrol. It also puts less strain on mechanical parts, enabling them to last longer before having to be replaced. Performance can also be compromised on a car that is infrequently serviced as parts that need to be changed due to wear and tear or damage continue to be used. A Mercedes with compromised parts may potentially lead to compromised safety as well, as the behaviour changes and becomes unpredictable. Even when a vehicle is going to be sold off, regular servicing pays dividends. A car in better condition and with proper service records would be able to fetch a better second hand.

A little goes a long way to maintaining the condition of a Mercedes or any car for that matter. Regular servicing may seem like a lot of money to spend at that point in time but it saves much more in the long run.

How Car Rental Companies Have Changed In The Last Decade

First came the bicycles, which brought the roads. Soon after, came the motor car1 which revolutionised all corners of the world, from increasing a person’s mobility both physically and socially to opening up opportunities to changing the way we access services and facilities. As cars became an integral to modern life, it did not take long before rental services became available. Just as the first mass consumer vehicles rolled off the factory lines with Henry Ford’s model T at the dawn of the 20th century, several of the major car rental companies that we have today were also just starting out. Amongst these, are Avis, Sixt and Hertz which all have a history of over a century.

The quintessential car rental company is seen to have a relatively straightforward business model in which a company with a car allows an individual to use the vehicle in return for a payment based on the number of days or distance used. Indeed, this was the business model for many years and it served the market very well. However, the world is constantly changing and nothing stays the same for long. In an industry defined by speed and convenience, businesses have to evolve to maintain its going concern.

 

Short Term Car Rentals in Tune with Lifestyles of New Generation of Clients

Growing mobility, connectivity, a quicker pace of innovation and a desire to have more with less gave rise to the asset-light lifestyle2 where people pay for access to use an item instead of owning it outright. In a globalised world where employees frequently relocate for work or on the other side of the spectrum where the office is online and commuting is unnecessary, owning a car may not be the most financially prudent acquisition. In cases like these, access to usage rather than ownership is the important factor. This mindset has also trickled down to corporations that see it as convenient and also financially sensible. It can concentrate on its core business and no longer has to factor in distractions like maintenance, depreciation, disposal, or asset carrying values. The annual figures show a clear indication that this is a growth sector4. The Singapore car rental market revenue made up US$154 million (S$ 210.46 million) in 2018 and is expected to reach US$205 million by 2022. Projected to the coming years, revenues are expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.73 % from 2021 to 2025, with a growth of user penetration from 6.3% in 2021 to 9.3% in 2025. This has created an opportunity for car rental and leasing companies; one that these businesses have been quick to capitalise on.

 

Car Rental in the Digital Age

Short term car rentals have become a popular alternative to ownership and to continue building on this momentum, car rental companies have had to become much more competitive by offering the following:

 

Greater Options

People love choices. Being able to select extras like GPS, a sun roof, additional insurance or the ability to include home delivery and pick up of the vehicle all add to customer satisfaction as it accommodates their unique circumstances or preferences.

 

Flexibility

Convenience and adaptability is another feature that has come to be expected. This can come in the form of hourly, half day or even overnight rentals instead of the traditional daily terms.

 

Car Sharing

With smartphone apps, car sharing has entered a new realm of possibilities. It has never been easier to facilitate this mode of short term car rentals. Cars are collected and returned6 at several possible predetermined spaces for durations that are measured in blocks of 1 hour or 30 minutes. The entire transaction can even be completed on the phone without any human interaction. In addition to cars, Hertz has also made the model of car rentals available to commercial vehicles like good vans.

 

Going Digital

Smartphone apps have also been used to simplify7 the process of traditional vehicles. With it, customers can skip the queues and reserve their desired vehicle in advance with the options that they want. The apps have also proven beneficial to car rental companies that are now able to build more accurate customer profiles and make tailored offerings.

 

Subscription Based Models

Companies such as BlueSG and WhizzCar6 were amongst the first to operate on a subscription basis. Gradually, more established companies like Hertz and Enterprise caught on8. The advantage to the customer is more competitive pricing because membership all but guarantees that a client is locked into the service. Another benefit is the ability to switch between different makes and models of cars within the fleet of vehicles. A member could be driving an SUV to pick up passengers one day and making use of a goods vehicle the next day to make deliveries.

 

Corporate Customers

Just like individuals, corporate clients have been looking for ways to simplify their operations while still being able to preserve or improve their service levels. An asset light strategy suits businesses well as it allows them to tap into a greater range of resources and expertise. For example, chauffeured passenger vans to shuttle VIPs around can be accessed without the need to hire a company driver or to purchase a company vehicle which might be sitting idle for the large part of the day.

 

Future Proofing

Vehicles are considered long term assets and last for the better part of a decade or more. Buying a current model today exposes the owner to obsolescence at some point, especially as advances in technology accelerate. Short term rentals ensure that the newest or at least newer are available for use. This is especially true for technologies like electric or autonomous vehicles.

As the car rental industry undergoes rapid overhaul, the major players have been quickly adjusting9 to the many threats and opportunities. What this means for potential customers is the expansion of choice never before available, challenging the traditional concept of ownership and making short term rentals a more efficient, resourceful and viable alternative.

Van Rental in Singapore: Benefits of Leasing VS Buying

Vans are a do-it-all, utility vehicle that have a place in our hearts, from the iconic Mystery Machine in everyone’s favourite Scooby Doo cartoons that can carry a whole team of private investigators and large-sized dog to today’s beloved package delivery man bringing presents from the internet. With its upsized capacity, there are endless possibilities and functions that these versatile vans can perform. From carrying commuters to cargo, these capable carriers buck the adage that less is more. While it is clear that vans can help a person or a company accomplish a lot, it is less clear whether a cheap van rental or buying one outright is better.


Pros and Cons of Van Rentals

Van rental prices are one of the biggest advantages of choosing a cheap van rental instead of buying. The monthly rental is a convenient all-in-one1 fee that includes road tax, insurance, service and maintenance which can add up to quite a fair amount.

Although leased vehicles can vary in age, there are also leases of brand new vehicles. An advantage of leasing is that the lessee can change to a different van after every few years, given that a typical contract lasts for 3 – 5 years. This is an especially valid consideration as electric vehicles are becoming more efficient and viable for commercial purposes. Buying a van and fully paying off the loan in 7 years to be saddled with an obsolete vehicle instead of a productive asset negates the main advantages of buying altogether.

This shorter commitment period with leasing contracts is advantageous as it brings with it the flexibility to extend the contract, amend it or upgrade of vehicle.

This brings us to some drawbacks of cheap van rentals. Contracts may include a clause for excessive use that restricts wear and tear such as disallowing unspecified drivers, putting limits on total mileage or to restrict operation of the vehicle outside of the country. There may also be restrictions in the event of an accident, since the insurance policy is included in the contract.

As with any amendment of contract terms after signing on the agreement, costs may be incurred. Likewise, breaking the leasing contract prior to expiry can be expensive so although it is a shorter term commitment than buying a commercial vehicle, it still places a financial burden on the lessee for some time.

On the other hand, a passenger van rental can make accounting sense by presenting it as an operating expense rather than having a capital expense on the books. Additionally, the company may wish to avoid listing a liability such as one incurred when taking a loan to buy a car.


Pros and Cons of Buying a Van

Ownership comes with a certain amount of freedom. When the company considers the prevailing van rental prices and chooses to own instead of rent, it is free to operate, maintain, use and even customise as it sees appropriate. Operating costs can be controlled by using cheaper workshops and cosmetic repairs can be delayed if necessary. At the end of the service life of the commercial vehicle, it can also recover some costs.

If purchasing first-hand, the newest model vehicle can be obtained and almost always, the mileage would also be lower. This is beneficial because newer vehicles perform better than older ones, needing less repairs, are more fuel efficient and are in better general condition.

Buying a commercial vehicle could also be a good option when interest rates are low or if the creditworthiness of a buyer entitles him to the best rates. The disadvantages are that these loans are considered when calculating a person’s Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) which limits an individual’s debt ratio.

The downside is that the buyer has to bear all the costs of ownership such as the down payment, maintenance and repair costs, COE bidding, road tax and eventual disposal. It is a long term commitment and some of these costs like servicing and repair can get most expensive with age.

Finally, because servicing a loan can be a long term commitment, there is a risk of default unlike when one is just leasing. A default will negatively affect credit worthiness and may affect application for other loans in the future.


Which is Better – Cheap Van Rentals Or Buying a Van?

Choosing which route to go down depends on many factors, especially the economic climate which determines the future business outlook as well as uncertainty. There is a global trend towards default on car loans and that can be taken as an indicator of difficult times and also as a signal that interest rates will increase to mitigate the effect of the defaults if it persists.

Aside from these macroeconomic factors, there are 3 main considerations to take. First is liquidity and cash flow. Buying a commercial vehicle involves large upfront costs. Taking advantage of a cheap van rental helps to reduce the financial burden and spreads out the costs over time. If this van is integral to the business operation, it helps generate cash flow to finance its monthly costs.

Next is maintenance, especially if your enterprise needs to operate a fleet of vans. The all-in-one pricing which includes servicing, accident recovery and repairs could help to streamline the business instead of having to dedicate time to do everything by oneself.

Finally, there is the consideration of total cost over the period that the commercial vehicle is used. This includes all promotions, cashback and inducements given by the leasing or dealership and also takes into consideration prevailing factors like interest rates and COE prices. When these are all taken into account, then one can properly appreciate the softer factors like choice, flexibility and convenience, and make a fully informed choice.

Mercedes Servicing: External Specialist Workshops or Dealership After sales?

The joy of driving a continental car is palpable from its widely proclaimed reputation for quality, comfort and luxury that precedes it, and subsequently quickly confirmed when one steps behind the wheel of a Mercedes, BMW, Audi or Volvo. From the distinctive comfort of the driver’s cabin to the electronic functions ergonomically installed within easy reach, the driving experience is an elevated experience.

However, continental cars also have the reputation of being costly to maintain; servicing is more expensive, genuine parts take longer to arrive, prone to breakdowns. This tarnishes the gilded dream that some have of owning a prestigious continental vehicle such as a Mercedes Benz. It’s as much a well tuned driving machine as it is a status symbol. This then raises the question of how to keep this gorgeous machine purring like a kitty without breaking the bank?


A Growing Taste for Continental Vehicles

The population of continental cars has been on the increase1. Growing affluence, demographics and no small amount of advertising has pushed the popularity of continental cars. Taking the absolute numbers of Mercedes Benz as an indication, over a period of the decade leading up to 2020, it can be seen that the German brand has grown over 100% from 30,467 to 64,886 vehicles. In the same period, the ever popular Toyota fell 9% while the total car population in Singapore increased by 6.4%2. Despite the growing fondness for these European imports, the fact remains that its upkeep is not the cheapest. To the new owners of a Mercedes Benz, and probably to many existing ones, the perennial question is how to keep running costs low. That usually leads to the million dollar question; are specialist workshops or dealership-operated after sales centers the better choice for Mercedes Benz servicing?


The Options for Mercedes Servicing

New cars typically come with a servicing package for the first few years. Within that time, repair work might also have to be done at the dealership’s service center in order to keep to the terms of the warranty. After that, an owner has two choices, to continue going to the dealership or to switch to an independent car workshop.

Mercedes Benz servicing comes in two packages, simply named A and B3. Service A is done after the first 10,000km, while service B is performed after 20,000km, with each alternating every subsequent 10,000km or 1 year.


Service package A being a minor servicing consists of the following at a cost of between $400 – $500.

  • Mercedes Synthetic Motor Oil Replacement
  • Oil Filter Replacement^
  • Brake inspection
  • Tire pressure checks & adjustments (including the spare)
  • Maintenance counter reset

Service package B is considered major servicing and costs roughly $700 – $800 to perform the following:

Mercedes-Benz Synthetic Motor Oil Replacement

  • Oil filter replacement^
  • Cabin filter replacement
  • Tire pressure inspection
  • Brake fluid inspection
  • Brake component inspection


The equivalent at an independent workshop could cost5 approximately $300 and $600 respectively. Which option to choose looks like a foregone conclusion but how does the private workshop achieve its cost savings?


Advantages of Using an Independent Workshop for your Mercedes Servicing

Cost savings is the biggest advantage of going to an independent service center, speed is another which comes about because there would naturally be many more independent workshops than a dealership can operate. Securing a date and time to suit your schedule would be much easier. Drivers might also find that last minute bookings may even be accommodated.

Returning to the point on competitive pricing, independent workshops are usually able to offer lower prices for several reasons. Lower overheads is one reason. Operating as a standalone workshop, it does not have a big facility, multiple departments or a large payroll to account for, so overheads are typically lower. They are also able to source for non OEM parts, discounted original parts or even used genuine parts. They are at liberty to exercise more resourcefulness to meet clients’ budgets.

Dealing with an independent workshop is also a more personal process. Over the years a relationship can be built up whereas an authorised workshop is more impersonal. As such, better pricing or discounts can be extended to their loyal customers. The workshop owner would also be better acquainted with the problems and service history of the vehicles; knowing its particular quirks and how to repair it more efficiently. In contrast, drivers usually meet the service advisor at an authorised workshop and would not have a chance to meet or speak with the mechanic assigned. An additional benefit of building relationships with privately owned businesses is that there is greater flexibility to go the extra mile, such as staying open a little longer to allow drivers to collect their car at the end of a long day at work. They might also be more willing to do work that authorised service centers would not be willing to due to the time and labour needed or in a bid to upsell products.


Advantages of Dealership Service Centers

Servicing a vehicle at the dealership is strictly by the books. The rules of engagement are predictable and fixed. The mechanics follow a manual and a prescribed list of steps when attending to vehicles. Mechanics are all trained to a uniform degree of expertise and the appropriate industry standard tools and diagnostic equipment are used. Original parts are always used to guarantee optimal performance but that could take time to ship in which adds to the cost.

The process could also be more streamlined as many have adopted the use of apps or websites to receive and make bookings. Even when dropping off the car, the driver only has to deal with a service advisor and never has to meet the technician or understand any of the mechanical issues. Lastly, as a larger entity, dealership owned service centers are less likely to close down.

As with many decisions in life, few questions can be answered with a definitive answer. Both options have their pros and cons. The decision to pick one over the other comes down to the value a driver puts on time and quality assurance. Finding a trustworthy and experienced private workshop can take time in order to reap the benefits of better personalised service at a more favourable price. To make the decision just a bit more complicated, large independent workshops such as ETHOZ blur the line between the two and can offer the best of both worlds.

Leasing Commercial Vehicles: 6 Important Factors to Consider

When your business needs a commercial vehicle, it’s a cost to your business however you obtain it. Hence, it’s very important to consider what you need and how to obtain the vehicle for your own business, to keep costs low and operations hassle-free. In that respect, one of the most popular ways to operate a commercial vehicle is to lease it.

Leasing removes the need for companies to also own and service their vehicles, and disposing of them in the end. It provides a flexible mode of vehicle fleet operation that can be adapted to different periods of time and needs.

Here are some factors you need to consider when planning to lease a commercial vehicle for your operations.


1) What Kind of Vehicle Do You Need

The very first factor is of course to identify the kind of vehicle you need for your particular operations. From cars to vans to trucks, each vehicle type offers different pros and cons, and is suited for different purposes. You need be clearly understand what purposes you need it for, and what impression you want the vehicle to make of your company.


2) How Long Do You Need It For

A key benefit of a lease over car ownership or renting is its suitability and cost-effectiveness for a mid-length usage period that is itself very flexible in length, ranging from a few months to a few years. When deciding to lease a car, it’s important to figure out how long you want to lease it for.


3) What Functions Do You Need

If you’re leasing a vehicle for commercial functions, chances are you’ll need to take into account the vehicle’s functions and its fittings. Some of these fittings include a canopy, a tailgate, an enclosed cargo space, a chiller or freezer, or an open deck, for cargo vehicles.

For example, if you’re a frozen food company, you need a vehicle that has been fitted for refrigeration.

Good car leasing companies will provide you the option of customising your commercial vehicle with the necessary fittings and functions that you require to ensure the vehicle suits your operational needs.


4) What is your Budget

Once you’ve sorted out the kind of vehicle you want and for how long you want it for, the dollars and cents are the most important consideration. As a business, you will have your own budget, and you’ll want to ensure that the vehicle you get can fit into that budget. Carefully plan your budget, and look for vehicles that suit your needs that also fit within the budget.

If you are unable to find a suitable commercial vehicle to lease at your current budget, this may be a sign that your expectations are too high for your budget. You will have to either increase the available budget to cater for this, or reduce your expectations or the amount of customisation you demand so that it will fit within your desired budget.


5) What is your Credit Rating

A commercial vehicle lease is similar to a loan, in that a vehicle is lent to you in exchange for regular payments. Hence, like loans, your credit rating, and the rating of your company, is crucial for securing the best terms for a commercial vehicle lease.

One good way to ensure you get the best deal possible is to check your credit score, and ensure that your credit score is healthy before applying for a commercial vehicle lease.


6) What are the Payment Terms

Lastly, when you have found the perfect commercial vehicle and the perfect leasing price, the last thing you need to do before signing on the dotted line is to look carefully at the payment terms, to ensure that they are agreeable to you. Consider not just the downpayment, but also the instalment schedule, as well as how fees and charges may be levied in certain situations.

Familiarise yourself with the terms, and if necessary, discuss and negotiate the payment terms to suit your business’ financial situation and cashflow.


Lease With The Best

To ensure the most favourable car leasing experience and packages, it is important to lease your commercial vehicle from a provider that is experienced in the automotive industry and has acquired a reputation for some of the most competitive lease packages in the industry.

ETHOZ has decades of experience in offering car leasing and car rental services for both private and commercial vehicles, as well as offering financing and other equipment leasing services for businesses.

Committed to help businesses get the wheels they need for their operations in an affordable and flexible manner, ETHOZ offers commercial vehicle leasing stands ready with a versatile fleet of ready vehicles to serve your needs at a good and affordable price.

Speak to us today, to start unlocking more capabilities in your business!

A Comprehensive Guide to Car Leasing in Singapore 2021

Car leasing is a common practice in Singapore among businesses that have short-term needs for company passenger transport, but cannot justify the cost of buying and maintaining one under the company’s own cash flow.

A smooth leasing experience will depend on your knowing what to do, and what to look out for. Here’s a detailed guide on how to go about leasing a car in 2021 to save you time and money.


Step 1: Choose a Car

The first step you need to take is to choose the ideal car model for your company’s needs–whether it be a generic Toyota or Nissan for general use, or a more luxurious BMW or Mercedes for the personal use of the CEO or the transportation of VIPs, choose a model that provides the right mix of comfort, luxury and practical functions.

You’ll also need to choose a model by balancing how long you need it for, against how much the car might cost. If you need the car for a longer period, you may want to avoid more costly makes and models that will drain your finances.


Step 2: Test Drive It

Next, you need to confirm your choice by test driving it and seeing how it handles–especially if you are personally going to drive this car. There’s no point leasing a cheaper model if it makes you uncomfortable for the duration of your lease.


Step 3: Make Sure You Have a Good Credit Score

A car lease is basically the loan of a car to you–you have to pay it back in instalments, and with interest. Hence, like a typical loan, having a good credit score is important to help you get the best deal possible, with the most favorable payment terms.

A good credit score gives your lease provider the confidence that you will be able to meet your lease instalment payments, and pay on time as well, so it is crucial that your credit score is good. Being in poor standing for credit can result in your lease application being rejected!

You should undertake steps to ensure that your score is good by paying your bills on time and punctually.


Step 4: Compare Lease Deals

Once you’re sure you’re ready to start hunting for a lease for your desired model, it’s time to start looking around. Speak to different car leasers in Singapore to find out what their rates for leasing might be, or, for the best deals with the most reputed dealer of all, you could simply speak to us at ETHOZ car leasing.

What you should be looking for in lease offers are the valuation of the car, its age, as well as the amount you would be expected to pay for the car, as well as the payment schedule–when and how much you will need to pay for each instalment.


Step 5: Negotiate Suitable Payment Terms

Once you have settled on a prospective car lease that suits the duration you need the car for, you can discuss payment terms with your chosen lease provider, to ensure a package that best suits your needs and financial situation. For example, you can discuss how much downpayment to put down upfront, and also your timetable for payments.


Step 6: Familiarise Yourself with the Terms and Conditions

As with any agreement and contract you sign, you should familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions for the car you are leasing. Every contract comes with small print that stipulate numerous terms, and once you sign on the dotted line, you are deemed to have agreed and committed yourself to fulfilling these terms, regardless of whether you read the contract and knew the terms were there or not.

These terms can include fees and charges payable for changes to the lease, penalties for late payment or damage to the vehicle, as well as other obligations and requirements that you may have to follow as a lessee. Ensure you have read these terms in detail before signing!


Step 7: Inspect Your Car Thoroughly

The last step before taking possession of your leased car is to carefully inspect the vehicle for yourself. As with all car rentals, you will be held responsible for any damage done to the vehicle once it leaves the custody of the lease provider, so while you are still there, give it a thorough check to ensure that it is working well and undamaged in all major aspects.

Test the engine, check the gauges, lights and brakes, and visually inspect all exterior and interior areas for damage, such as dents, scratches, tears or discolourations and blemishes. Ensure that you report all these to your lease provider and make sure these are recorded as having been there before you took over the keys, or you will find yourself having to pay for damage that you never caused, when you return the car.


Leasing with ETHOZ

In addition to providing you some of the most competitive packages in Singapore for car leasing, ETHOZ also offers one of the widest ranges of available car makes and models for your selection, to meet your every need and purpose.

As one of the most established car rental providers in Singapore, ETHOZ also offers short term and long term car rental services for your needs if the duration or cost of leasing is not ideal for your situation.

With decades of market-leading experience in the automotive industry, ETHOZ is the first and only port of call you’ll need if you’re looking for a good car lease! Contact us today!

Understanding different needs for MICE Chauffeur Service

M.I.C.E events is an acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. These events are business-focused and held for tradespeople in industry specific fields such as aviation, logistics, medical and construction, for example. It brings together large groups of people in related trade areas for the purpose of facilitating business interactions, establishing market presence and broadening commercial networks. With a large number of people gathered in one place, a whole slew of services, logistics, accommodation and other essentials need to be catered for, it is an important subsegment of business travel that complements many other industries. There are also additional knock on effects that benefit the travel industry as it can involve a leisure component.

To visiting participants in a foreign country, transportation can be tricky and the last thing a business traveller should be bogged down with is commuting and navigation. This makes transport arrangements amongst the key factors for a successful MICE event.


More Than a Chauffeur Rental Service

At first glance arranging transportation for an event should be relatively straightforward. One would think that any and all transportation needs would be easy to satisfy by engaging a chauffeur rental service. However, there are several other important considerations aside from just going from point A to B that have to be thought through. For one, there is the question of how many guests are travelling together or if there are VIPs that require different service levels. Depending on the number and importance of these individuals, they could ride together which makes things easier or have to travel separately which would take more coordination. If there are especially distinguished guests, private transportation might have to be provided for each individual. There might also be special preferences and other logistical requirements to think about such as bottled water or in-car internet availability.

If your guests are coming from abroad, getting to and from the airport could be something to think about. Apart from making sure the vehicle is available at the required arrival and departure times, there also has to be sufficient space for luggage. This might necessitate different models of cars on different days, such as a sedan like a Mercedes on the days of the event and a van on the first and last day when more carrying capacity is needed.

During event days all the critical considerations come into play. Schedules and being at the right place at the right time are paramount, especially if one has meetings, demonstrations or even workshops to attend, whether as a presenter, trainer or just a participant. There could be multiple venues to shuttle between or meal time arrangements to take note of.

Often, MICE events make some time for entertainment. These could take place after working hours and the chauffeur rental company would have to be consulted on whether after office hours chauffeur services can be arranged. Being able to communicate with the chauffeur in such situations might be important and so ensuring that he can speak with the client in a common language should be another aspect to think about.

With ecological issues having entered the collective consciousness in recent times, ‘sustainability’ is a perennial watch word in every industry, even the MICE one. Through careful planning and logistical coordination, carbon emissions and air pollution can be reduced significantly. The Singapore Tourism Board has even prepared a set of environmentally friendly regulations1 specifically aimed at the MICE industry to achieve this. The guidelines list out different actions of varying complexity that can be adopted, such as renting vehicles that are fuel economical or consolidating pick up amongst several guests.

There are also constantly evolving challenges that affect the MICE industry and the transportation sector that supports it such as the ongoing pandemic. There needs to be plans that accommodate mandatory quarantines for inbound passengers from any given country when it becomes required. There could also be scenarios where guests need to receive medical attention.


Better to leave it to the Chauffeur Rental Professionals

As it outlined above, negotiating the different needs for MICE chauffeur services can be a painstaking endeavour to handle alone. In such a case, it may be better to leave it to the professionals. Engaging a company that provides chauffeur services puts the minutiae in the hands of experienced professionals, thereby ensuring the comfort, punctuality and safety of the passengers.

5 Things You Must Know About Servicing Your Mercedes In Singapore

If you own a Mercedes vehicle, you would have possibly invested a huge amount of money in driving one of the best global luxury car brands. As such, it would be self-explanatory that you want to keep it operating smoothly for a long period of time. This would require a sufficient amount of servicing done to avoid possible vehicle breakdown or faultiness. In this article, you would understand a comprehensive list of things that you would need to know about servicing Mercedes.


1. Apply Car UV Protection

One of the essential steps to service a Mercedes is to apply UV protection to protect the car’s paint from damage due to UV sun rays. The service company would apply wax that provides a sufficient amount of UV protection against the harmful UV sun rays. The protection layer is typically inside the vehicle. Moreover, there are other cleaning materials available in the market to coat the protected layer and keep the vehicle looking brand new for a longer period of time.


2. Check Car Components

Every car, including Mercedes, has a few important components that require regular servicing such as hoses and belts to keep it running and operating. Some examples are timing belts and coolant hoses. If one of the belts breaks or if the hose bursts, the car will face a major issue on hand. Therefore, it is important for car owners to perform regular servicing to see if the Mercedes belts or hoses have potential damages. As such, immediately schedule a Mercedes service as soon as possible at the nearest facility.


3. Check Tire Pressure

It is important to make sure that the tire pressure is at the recommended safe psi. Most car drivers do not know that their tires are under-inflated, which can lead to potential high risks of car accidents on the road. In order to prevent such accidents from occurring, make sure that your tire pressure is at the recommended psi level. Besides checking the right tire pressure, it is important to ensure that it is adjusted at the right alignment.


4. Check Vehicle Lights

The next important step to take is to ensure that every car light is working properly. It includes the headlights, taillights, brake lights, reverse lights, hazard lights, signalling lights and turn signals. If one of these lights is not working properly, immediately send your car for servicing. As for burned or damaged light, you can have it replaced at any car facility of Mercedes.


5. Cost of Servicing

To keep your Mercedes operating smoothly for a long period, you need to make sure that you schedule for regular servicing. But don’t forget to check the total cost of servicing, and prepare yourself financially! What people don’t consider is how costly and expensive it is to maintain the vehicles, especially for luxury car brands such as Mercedes.


Most Singaporeans own and purchase a vehicle to run errands, travel with friends and family members, or simply commute from home to work and vice versa. It can be extremely costly to service the car regularly. Car servicing and maintenance plans are rarely within the budget because nobody plans for their car to wear and tear or break down. And it is typically too late when drivers notice that their cars are in need of maintenance and service – leading to costly fixtures.

Thus, it is rather important for drivers to attend any Mercedes workshops in Singapore to learn preventative maintenance measures. This helps them to be better prepared financially and emotionally for their luxury vehicles. It is also essential for drivers to know that regular Mercedes servicing is vital in helping them to save costs efficiently; or in another word, to prevent paying high costs of car repair fees in Singapore.

If you don’t want to miss out on any good deals at local Mercedes workshops, you can check out the skilful and professional mechanics at our remarkable ETHOZ Mercedes workshop, under our ETHOZ Mercedes Premium Care Maintenance Programme.

Alternatively, if you’re driving somewhere where you don’t want to bring your precious Mercedes ride, you can rent from us! ETHOZ also offers auto rental and leasing, capital financing equipment leasing Solutions, commercial vehicle financing, and other car rental services in Singapore to drivers and business owners seeking to optimise their operations, where zero downtime, predictable operating costs and controlled cash flow outlay are paramount.

Evolving from its humble roots in car leasing to become a full-fledged Automotive Solutions provider, we pride ourselves in prestigious automobile rental services with all sorts of features and functions to satisfy your needs. Furthermore, the quality and expertise of our fleet management team ensure that dedicated efforts and service works are offered to sustain long term relationships with everyone.

The mechanics at our Mercedes workshops are more than equipped to handle your luxury car with maintenance needs such as the need to provide authentic Mercedes components and parts for replacements or repairs. With ETHOZ, you can be assured of the most cost-efficient and honest advice in order to prevent unnecessary excessive spending.

How To Manage An Emergency On The Road

There are certain things that you need to know in advance whenever you go for a drive. Driving typically consists of having accidents on the roads. A car emergency preparation is one of those important things that some people don’t value. Learning how to manage a car emergency is essential and imperative, as you would’ve prepared a number of tools that can help you in traffic situations.

Whether your car has broken down on the side of the road or got involved in a minor car accident; you need to manage them properly. During a car emergency, you might be anxious and terrified, not knowing what to do especially if you’re alone. Thus, the article has a comprehensive list of ways and techniques to address a car emergency, particularly since it seems to happen in the least expected circumstances and moments.


1. Car Breaks Down

A car breakdown is one of the most common emergencies on the road. To manage the car break down, try to slowly park or move the disabled vehicle to the side of the road, or a visible area of the road.

This is to ensure the safety of the main driver and other drivers who are aware of the car breakdown. It is important as they will slow down their cars, especially on the expressway. If possible, turn on the emergency flashers to keep all other passengers away from the traffic. Call for the relevant hotline to get the car out of the traffic – car towing services.


2. Car Tire Blowout

Car tires tend to wear out after driving for a period of time. In fact, these car tires wear and tear over time even if they’re not being driven on the road. Although the car tires may appear to be in good condition, the rubber inside is actually weakening.

When you are aware of the blowout, halt the car immediately to prevent the car from flipping over. Do not use the brakes and take your stop the gas pedal and control. Slowly pull over the car towards the shoulder of the road.

If you have a spare tire at the back of the car, you can change it by yourself or get help from other car drivers. It is important that you are far enough off the main road so that you will not distract the moving traffic. If you don’t have the spare tire, call for help and follow the breakdown information.


3. Brake Failure

In the event of a brake failure, you should immediately pump the brakes and use any of its residual pressure. Then slowly stop the gas pedal and try changing to a lower gear. If possible, you can use your emergency brake to control the car. With an emergency brake handle, you can keep the button on the end pressed down so the wheels will not lock up. If you do not know how to use your emergency brake, try contacting a relevant hotline to get help.

In certain circumstances, you can look for something to rub the car against. A small fence, lamppost, or bushes would work for minimal impact on the driver and car. Try to choose an object or area that will give way when you hit against it to minimise damage to the car and to you. Once the car is stopped after hitting a particular spot, do not drive it again until the brakes are fixed.

Check for your car insurance plans to get claims for damaging the car and public areas. It’ll be favourable if you have health insurance to cover any car accidental incidents.


4. Overheating Engine

A car engine tends to overheat especially in hot weather conditions, or long hours of driving. Thus, you should always keep a watch out on the temperature gauge and prevent engine overheating. If possible, do not not drive at fast speeds for long periods of time, or drive in lower gear. Other techniques to prevent overheating engines include turning off the air conditioning.

In some cases, the car temperature warning light might come on, or points to the red zone. You should halt the car immediately and turn off the engine. Doing it early might prevent the car from catching fire. In unfortunate cases, if your engine catches fire, stop the car as soon as you can safely. Guide other drivers to leave the roadway quickly. Then get to a safe zone and call the emergency hotline to extinguish the fire and prevent possibilities of car explosion.


A Better Alternative

At this point, you might be worried about the consequences to bear for a car. Besides paying road tax, COE, insurance and maintenance fee, you have to worry about possible car emergency issues on the road. Therefore, we have provided a better alternative for you: rent a car with everything ready for you.

Renting a car will be most suitable if you are only driving a car for temporary reasons. Moreover, you don’t have to worry about the financial burden of owning a car. And if the car rental comes at a cheap and affordable rate, that’s even better!

As one of the top professional providers of affordable automotive services and car rental in Singapore, ETHOZ offers all kinds of car rental services in Singapore to drivers and business owners seeking to optimise their operations, where zero downtime, predictable operating costs and controlled cash flow outlay are paramount. Moreover, ETHOZ offers round the clocks roadside assistance (24/7) and replacement vehicles when needed. We also work with several insurance companies to support their insurance policy holders[LL6] in the event of a car accident.

Evolving from its humble roots in car leasing to become a full-fledged car rental and Automotive Solutions provider, we pride ourselves in prestigious car rental services with all sorts of features and functions to satisfy your needs. Furthermore, the quality and expertise of our fleet management team ensure that dedicated efforts and service works are offered to sustain long term relationships with everyone.