News
2011 : A year of progress and growth
It’s the end of another 12 months, and as Sandicliffe Motor Contracts enters its 30th year of business, the company continues to expand its.......
Read more >>
Have a safe and happy Christmas
With the winter weather setting in, many regions being subjected to high winds and snow, and driving conditions worsening across the country, Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Call for ‘at-work’ vehicle accidents to be included under RIDDOR
The requirement to officially report work-related road accidents could be enforced if the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health succeeds in.......
Read more >>
AFRs remain unchanged
New advisory fuel rates rates (AFRs) published by HMRC have remained predominantly unchanged, with just one amendment to LPG rates. Used to reimburse.......
Read more >>
Diesel hybrids will not incur the 3% BIK Penalty
Diesel hybrid cars will escape the 3% benefit-in-kind band increase that regular diesels incur after HMRC accepted that the new technology is exempt.......
Read more >>
Van damage rises as refurbishment costs increase
The total cost of van damage is rising, with BCA reporting an 18% year-on-year increase from £683 to £808 on average for vehicles being.......
Read more >>
Companies advised to focus on their Grey Fleet in 2012
Over a third of grey fleet drivers (43%) have never been asked by their employer to demonstrate their vehicle is fit to drive, whether it is insured.......
Read more >>
Short term lease 4 x 4 vehicles available for winter months
Drivers whose jobs rely on them remaining mobile, irrespective of weather conditions, can benefit from an interim service from Sandicliffe Motor.......
Read more >>
Concerns raised over another rise in fuel prices
At a time when the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has expressed concerns about another hike in fuel costs, a survey by Volkswagen reveals that a.......
Read more >>
Interest in contract hire grows from van fleets
The level of enquiries from van fleet operators is rising as an increasing number look at the benefits of contract hire. Phil Elms, Sales Director.......
Read more >>
Great Care needed with 2012 Car Choice Lists
Company car choice lists have never been so important for controlling future costs and steering drivers towards greener and more tax efficient vehicles. According.......
Read more >>
Campaign launched to preserve the frequency of the MOT
With proposals being tabled to review the existing MOT system, potentially moving to a 4-2-2 system (which would see a car’s first MOT after.......
Read more >>
Demand Rises for Daily Rental and Short Term Lease
The number of fleet operators using daily rental and short term lease has risen, as some companies supplement their fleets without committing to.......
Read more >>
Contract Hire offers financial certainty during uncertain times
Companies that outright purchase their fleets are re-examining the benefits of contract hire as the Eurozone crisis causes concern to UK businesses,.......
Read more >>
MOT Warning to Grey Fleets
1.1 million car owners are choosing not to get their car’s MOT renewed on the due date, and 34% do not book their MOT in advance. Police.......
Read more >>
The Importance of Eyesight checks highlighted by survey
Drivers with poor vision can only recognise 75% of road signs and 62% are more likely to struggle to maintain constant speed and stray out of lanes. The.......
Read more >>
Impact of Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) is starting to be felt
The impact of the new Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) scheme, launched by the Government earlier this year, is starting to be felt with Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Online Service Enhanced with Driver Support Facility
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has enhanced its online offering with a new web page providing support services to fleet drivers. The new facility.......
Read more >>
Duty of Care High on Fleet Agenda
The introduction of the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007, and the Health & Safety Offences Act 2008, heightened the importance of.......
Read more >>
Speed Camera Data Offers Mixed Results
With speed camera data now in the public domain for the first time, the results are mixed with some locations revealing a rise in collisions following.......
Read more >>
Survey Reveals Far too Many Drivers are not Making Essential Vehicle Checks
20% of motorists never check their brake fluid, just over 15% don’t check to see if their brake lights are working and one in nine don’t.......
Read more >>
Road casualties reach an all time low
According to the latest figures from the Department for Transport, Britain’s road safety record is improving. The number of people killed.......
Read more >>
Place vehicle orders pre-holiday season to ensure timely delivery
2011 has been the year when manufacturer lead times on new vehicle deliveries have reached their worst levels for years. Which is why Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Fleet registrations increase, but Short-Term Leasing remains a great option
The number of vehicle registrations for business use is on the increase according to the latest figures. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and.......
Read more >>
Businesses seek stability for their Fleet by turning to Independent providers
Stable vehicle supply, and consistent account management and customer service have become key factors when appointing a contract hire provider. That.......
Read more >>
New Transparency Rules for Speed Cameras
Speed camera information will be published by local authorities and the police showing the numbers of accidents and casualties at camera sites,.......
Read more >>
New Insurance Law Comes into Force
New rules for vehicle insurance came into force on 20 June 2011 aimed at reducing the level of uninsured driving in the UK. The Continuous Insurance.......
Read more >>
Accurate Mileage Records Essential as HMRC Gets Tough
Companies are being warned to be extra vigilant with their mileage records after the HMRC announced it was adopting a tougher stance on mileage.......
Read more >>
New Technology to Improve Fuel Efficiency
New technology due for launch in the next few years is set to double the efficiency of combustion engines and halve their CO2 emissions. The.......
Read more >>
Have Your Say on Government Red Tape
Companies and private motorists are being given the chance to comment on over 400 Whitehall road transport regulations which have been placed on.......
Read more >>
Advisory Fuel Rates to Be Reviewed Quarterly
From June 1st the HMRC will apply new rules to their Advisory Fuel Rates which will include a quarterly review as well as a fairer interpretation.......
Read more >>
Opt Out Drivers Head Back to the Company Car
A growing number of drivers who opted out of their company car schemes three or four years ago, instead taking a cash option to fund and run their.......
Read more >>
Avoidable Faults Cause a 20% Increase in Driver Downtime
A rising number of vehicle breakdowns are completely avoidable, with lost productivity leaping by 20% due to drivers being stranded at the side.......
Read more >>
Fleet Software Alone is Not a Solution
A Borough Council that invested in fleet software to reduce operating costs is promoting its success to other local authorities as a means of saving.......
Read more >>
Fleet Registrations Rise in March as Businesses Continue to Order
Figures published by the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) show that new vehicles registered for fleet use rose to 45.4% in March.......
Read more >>
Benefits of Being Independent Continue to Grow
Companies operating vehicle fleets are increasingly seeing the benefits of working with high quality, independent contract hire and leasing firms. According.......
Read more >>
BMW X5 Is the Most Stolen Car in the UK
The BMW X5 has been given the title of “UK’s most desirable car for thieves.” In fact it has held this dubious title for the.......
Read more >>
New Parking Surcharge Announced for Diesels
As drivers of gas guzzlers and high emission cars continue to face increasing bills, pre Euro5 diesel-powered vehicles could now start seeing higher.......
Read more >>
A Good Time to Order as a May Interest Rate Rise is Predicted
Companies could benefit from locking into the current low interest rates for the next 3 to 4 years by placing their contract hire orders before.......
Read more >>
Future BIK Rates Leave Company Car Drivers Gambling
Company car drivers are being warned to err on the side of caution when choosing their next company car, with the advanced notification of Benefit.......
Read more >>
Higher Emission Smaller Fleets Are Paying Over the Odds
According to the SMMT (Society of Motor Traders and Manufacturers) businesses running fleets of less than 25 vehicles are operating with the highest.......
Read more >>
March Budget Summary for Business Fleets
For businesses operating vehicle fleets, the recent Budget saw changes to fuel price duty, company car benefit-in-kind tax, Approved Mileage Allowance.......
Read more >>
Online Fleet Management Systems Offer Efficiency, But Companies Still Expect the Personal Touch
One thing has dominated the fleet sector in recent years – the development of online solutions. Whether it’s the ability to access.......
Read more >>
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Promotes Phil Elms to the Position of Sales Director
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts is pleased to announce the promotion of Phil Elms to the role of Sales Director. Gary Benfield, Managing Director.......
Read more >>
Companies Operating Van Fleets Urged to Check Their Tyres
VOSA has reported that the most frequent prohibition defect at spot checks on light goods vehicles across the country relates to tyres. From.......
Read more >>
HMRC to Advise on AFR Revisions
An announcement is imminent from the HMRC regarding the advisory fuel rates in light of continued fuel price rises. The most recent adjustment.......
Read more >>
Good Quality Advice Far Outweighs Cheap Rates When It Comes to Making Savings
There are many businesses looking at how they can reduce their vehicle fleet overheads in 2011, however simply pursuing the cheapest rate isn’t.......
Read more >>
Used Car Values Drop in 2010
Average wholesale used car values fell by 4.4% in 2010 compared with 2009, which equates to an average drop of or £306 per vehicle. According.......
Read more >>
Fuel Efficient Fleet Policies Top Agenda
With fuel prices at an all time high, having risen by £1 a gallon over the last 12 months, many companies are reviewing their vehicle policies.......
Read more >>
Driver Appetite for Hybrids and Electric Vehicles Soars
Glass’s has revealed that the number of people thinking of buying a plug-in hybrid or battery electric car as their next vehicle purchase.......
Read more >>
Free Driver Safety Advice
Please be safe during this festive period. With increased drinking at lunchtime and socialising at home, many drivers lose track of what they.......
Read more >>
Snow Joke – £60 Fine and 3 Points for Snow on Your Roof
We’ll leave it for you to decide whether to laugh, agree or curse at this story. However, it’s been reported in the national press.......
Read more >>
Keep Your Options Open in 2011 – A Look at Short Term Leasing
The last 18 months have seen a large rise in the demand for flexibility. Economic uncertainty has led to a lack of confidence and, when taking on.......
Read more >>
The End of Another Year – But a Year of Progress at Sandicliffe Motor Contracts
It’s the end of another year and a time when we begin to reflect on 2010. But to look at what’s now being offered to Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Snow, Ice, Travel Chaos and Christmas
When we were hit with unprecedented levels of snow at the start of this year, none of us would have believed that 2010 would end the same way as.......
Read more >>
20% VAT to Prompt Increased Interest in Contract Hire
There is just 1 month to go before VAT rises to 20%. And many fleet industry commentators expect it to cause more VAT registered companies to look.......
Read more >>
Reporting Vehicle Accidents Could be Compulsory
The creation of a new reporting system to record at-work accidents involving vehicles could find its way onto the Government’s agenda. Under.......
Read more >>
Serious Injuries Rise by 3% for Every 5 Degree Temperature Drop
As we face the first serious ‘cold snap’ of winter, news images from all over the UK show vehicles being stuck in snow or having accidents. And.......
Read more >>
Is that Journey Really Necessary? – Making Savings by Reducing Business Mileage
When you are paying around £5 for a gallon of fuel, expenses at 40p a mile, getting delayed on our congested roads and seeing well paid members.......
Read more >>
Triton Showers – A Longstanding Partnership
In May 1975 Triton Showers began as Triton Aquatherm Ltd manufacturing one shower in a garage in Atherstone. Now owned by Norcros plc, Triton.......
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Sub-100g/km CO2 cars to be exempt from Congestion Charge
All cars under 100g/km CO2 which meet Euro 5 compliancy will be exempt from the London congestion charge from 4 January 2011, after paying a £10.......
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Winter - The Most Expensive Time of the Year
It's around this time of year that Sandicliffe Motor Contracts puts out an announcement advising drivers to check their vehicles and take greater.......
Read more >>
New car fuel economy up 7.64%. Do You Have the Most Efficient Vehicles on Your Fleet?
The average fuel economy of new cars in the UK has improved by 7.64 per cent in the past year, prompting many companies to review their vehicle.......
Read more >>
Focus on Fleet Costs Set to Intensify
Controlling fleet costs will become an increasingly important focus for both the public and private sectors in the next 12 months. However, the.......
Read more >>
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Appoints New Regional Sales Manager
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has expanded its sales team with the appointment of David Casserley. With extensive experience of sales and account.......
Read more >>
Lower CO2 Equals Lower Tax
It was April 2002 when company car tax rates became based on CO2 emissions. And at the time it had little impact on company car drivers because.......
Read more >>
Road injuries and fatalities cost UK economy £33 billion last year
The Government has decided to place an estimate on the total cost of road deaths and injuries to the economy, including factors never incorporated.......
Read more >>
New Mondeo Diesel Will Hit Lowest CO2 Tax Band
Good news for company car drivers as Ford has revealed it is launching a sub-120g/km Mondeo in February. At present, very low tax models within.......
Read more >>
Businesses Focus on an Important Three Months
As we move out of the summer holidays, most businesses see September, October and November as a crucial trading period before Christmas arrives. For.......
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Clamping on Private Land to be Banned
Wheel clamping on private land will come to an end in November in a bid to stop rogue operators exploiting drivers by charging excessive fines. The.......
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Fuel Prices Set to Hit an All Time High
The Retail Motor Industry Independent Petrol Retailers Association (RMI Petrol) is warning businesses to expect a significant rise in the cost of.......
Read more >>
New V5c Registration Document Introduced
A new style V5c vehicle registration document (logbook) has been introduced by the DVLA, not only changing colour, from blue to red, but also containing.......
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Fuel Card Popularity Grows as Fleets Look to Control Costs
With the cost of fuel being so high, many companies are actively looking at ways of driving down costs. A fleet of 100 cars can run up an annual.......
Read more >>
Top 10 Crash for Cash Spots
A survey by Direct Line insurance has identified the UK's top ten ‘crash for cash' hotspots, where fraudsters fake accidents by making unnecessary.......
Read more >>
Drivers Need to be Reminded About the Importance of Vehicle Checks
For many companies operating fleets of vehicles, there is a huge reliance on the driver to ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy. However, irrespctive.......
Read more >>
Where Are Your Company Vehicles Travelling to This Summer?
With weather forecasters predicting a hot British Summer, the Camping and Caravanning Club has said that bookings for pitches at sites in the UK.......
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Lack of Screenwash Poses Legionnaires' Disease Risk
Fleet managers should warn all drivers to make sure their windscreen wiper fluid is topped up with screenwash after a survey showed evidence that.......
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12 Month Old Fiestas are Incredible Value for Money
A year ago Sandicliffe Motor Contracts won a major contract through its courtesy car leasing division for a high volume of Ford Fiesta's. With.......
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Making Commercial Sense
Agreeing the optimum way of operating a commercial vehicle fleet holds a large number of variables. - Identifying the correct number of vehicles.......
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VAT Increase in the Budget Places Greater Focus on Contract Hire
The announcement that VAT will rise to 20% in 2011 will cause more businesses to look at the benefits of contract hire, according to the BVRLA (British.......
Read more >>
New Code of Conduct for Vans
The FTA (Freight Transport Association) has launched a Van Excellence Code aimed at providing van operators with an agreed code of conduct to follow. Already.......
Read more >>
Are Your Drivers Eligible to be Driving At All?
Driving licences have come under increased scrutiny this month. The Licence Bureau reported an instance where someone who had been banned for.......
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The Art of Deduction – How to use Additional Support Services to Reduce Fleet Costs
When it comes to finding a suitable fleet funding and management service, most companies focus on their core requirement – with contract hire.......
Read more >>
New Rules for Personal Injury Claims Begin on 30th April
Drivers who injure another party in a blameworthy accident will need to respond quickly to avoid losing their insurance indemnity, under new personal.......
Read more >>
HMRC rules out AFR rate rise
HMRC has ruled out any review of its advisory fuel rate (AFRs) before the scheduled June 1 review. This means that with fuel prices hitting.......
Read more >>
Professional Delivery
Choices have been made, colours and specifications agreed, an order placed and the company car is due for delivery. For the fleet manager, it’s.......
Read more >>
Driver Training Online? Is That Really Possible?
At Sandicliffe Motor Contracts we’re always looking to help our customers reduce costs. But when we mention that we can offer online driver.......
Read more >>
“Driver” Management Becomes a New Focus for Fleet Managers
Companies operating fleets of vehicles are being advised to place greater focus on the management of their drivers according to Phil Elms, National.......
Read more >>
Offering a cash Allowance? – It could be costing you and your drivers money
It wasn't many years ago the Government was taxing drivers out of the company car. But with the Chancellor improving the tax incentives to drive.......
Read more >>
Professional Partners - a case study of Danwood
Danwood is the UK’s largest independent supplier of office printing equipment and document management solutions. Printers, copiers, multifunctional.......
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Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Launches New 4 Page Newsletter
We are always looking at better ways of offering advice and information to our clients. Which is why we have launched a 4 page newsletter packed.......
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Budget Summary - March 2010
Last week saw the final Budget prior to a General Election and there was nothing too significant for fleet operators apart from a few items worth.......
Read more >>
Warning Over Private Cars Used for Business Purposes
You may have heard the phrase "Grey Fleet" - the term for employees who drive their own vehicle for business use. And the reason why.......
Read more >>
Small knocks and scrapes are costing fleets thousands in unnecessary repairs
When a driver has a small knock or scrape caused by reversing into a post, catching the side of their vehicle as they pull out of a tight entrance,.......
Read more >>
Fuel Cards a Great Tool for Controlling Costs
Its not uncommon for a relatively standard car to run up an annual fuel bill of up to £2500 (assuming its doing around 20,000 miles per annum). Across.......
Read more >>
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Wins Contract With Inspired Gaming Group
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts, the Long Eaton-based contract hire and leasing specialist, has won an order to supply 35 vehicles to Midlands-based.......
Read more >>
Sale and Leaseback Interest on the Increase as Companies Seek to Raise Cash for Vital Growth Plans
With 2010 truly underway, the signs of an economic recovery are strong and optimism is growing. And as many businesses seek to capitalise on.......
Read more >>
Place your orders before the manufacturers' price increases
If you have orders to place in the first quarter of 2010, it is well worth speaking to us about likely motor manufacturer price increases. By.......
Read more >>
Say Goodbye to Recharges as New Tyre Scheme is Launched
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has launched a new tyre scheme with unlimited replacements and no recharges. This means within your fixed cost maintenance.......
Read more >>
Diesel Can Freeze In Low Temperatures - Fleets are Warned
Independent contract hire and leasing specialist, Sandicliffe Motor Contracts, is warning fleet operators that diesel can freeze in very cold conditions. Caused.......
Read more >>
2009 - A Year of Progress
No-one could argue that 2009 has been the year of depressing national headlines. However, at Sandicliffe Motor Contracts we're proud that it.......
Read more >>
Privileged Purchase Programme Launched
New for 2010 is Sandicliffe Motor Contracts' "Privileged Purchase Programme" which is being launched in January. This is a scheme which.......
Read more >>
Drink Driving Awareness Programme
Please be safe during this festive period. With increased drinking at lunchtime and socialising at home, many drivers lose track of what they.......
Read more >>
2011 : A year of progress and growth
It’s the end of another 12 months, and as Sandicliffe Motor Contracts enters its 30th year of business, the company continues to expand its.......
Read more >>
Have a safe and happy Christmas
With the winter weather setting in, many regions being subjected to high winds and snow, and driving conditions worsening across the country, Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Call for ‘at-work’ vehicle accidents to be included under RIDDOR
The requirement to officially report work-related road accidents could be enforced if the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health succeeds in.......
Read more >>
AFRs remain unchanged
New advisory fuel rates rates (AFRs) published by HMRC have remained predominantly unchanged, with just one amendment to LPG rates. Used to reimburse.......
Read more >>
Diesel hybrids will not incur the 3% BIK Penalty
Diesel hybrid cars will escape the 3% benefit-in-kind band increase that regular diesels incur after HMRC accepted that the new technology is exempt.......
Read more >>
Van damage rises as refurbishment costs increase
The total cost of van damage is rising, with BCA reporting an 18% year-on-year increase from £683 to £808 on average for vehicles being.......
Read more >>
Companies advised to focus on their Grey Fleet in 2012
Over a third of grey fleet drivers (43%) have never been asked by their employer to demonstrate their vehicle is fit to drive, whether it is insured.......
Read more >>
Short term lease 4 x 4 vehicles available for winter months
Drivers whose jobs rely on them remaining mobile, irrespective of weather conditions, can benefit from an interim service from Sandicliffe Motor.......
Read more >>
Concerns raised over another rise in fuel prices
At a time when the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has expressed concerns about another hike in fuel costs, a survey by Volkswagen reveals that a.......
Read more >>
Interest in contract hire grows from van fleets
The level of enquiries from van fleet operators is rising as an increasing number look at the benefits of contract hire. Phil Elms, Sales Director.......
Read more >>
Great Care needed with 2012 Car Choice Lists
Company car choice lists have never been so important for controlling future costs and steering drivers towards greener and more tax efficient vehicles. According.......
Read more >>
Campaign launched to preserve the frequency of the MOT
With proposals being tabled to review the existing MOT system, potentially moving to a 4-2-2 system (which would see a car’s first MOT after.......
Read more >>
Demand Rises for Daily Rental and Short Term Lease
The number of fleet operators using daily rental and short term lease has risen, as some companies supplement their fleets without committing to.......
Read more >>
Contract Hire offers financial certainty during uncertain times
Companies that outright purchase their fleets are re-examining the benefits of contract hire as the Eurozone crisis causes concern to UK businesses,.......
Read more >>
MOT Warning to Grey Fleets
1.1 million car owners are choosing not to get their car’s MOT renewed on the due date, and 34% do not book their MOT in advance. Police.......
Read more >>
The Importance of Eyesight checks highlighted by survey
Drivers with poor vision can only recognise 75% of road signs and 62% are more likely to struggle to maintain constant speed and stray out of lanes. The.......
Read more >>
Impact of Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) is starting to be felt
The impact of the new Continuous Insurance Enforcement (CIE) scheme, launched by the Government earlier this year, is starting to be felt with Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Online Service Enhanced with Driver Support Facility
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has enhanced its online offering with a new web page providing support services to fleet drivers. The new facility.......
Read more >>
Duty of Care High on Fleet Agenda
The introduction of the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007, and the Health & Safety Offences Act 2008, heightened the importance of.......
Read more >>
Speed Camera Data Offers Mixed Results
With speed camera data now in the public domain for the first time, the results are mixed with some locations revealing a rise in collisions following.......
Read more >>
Survey Reveals Far too Many Drivers are not Making Essential Vehicle Checks
20% of motorists never check their brake fluid, just over 15% don’t check to see if their brake lights are working and one in nine don’t.......
Read more >>
Road casualties reach an all time low
According to the latest figures from the Department for Transport, Britain’s road safety record is improving. The number of people killed.......
Read more >>
Place vehicle orders pre-holiday season to ensure timely delivery
2011 has been the year when manufacturer lead times on new vehicle deliveries have reached their worst levels for years. Which is why Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Fleet registrations increase, but Short-Term Leasing remains a great option
The number of vehicle registrations for business use is on the increase according to the latest figures. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and.......
Read more >>
Businesses seek stability for their Fleet by turning to Independent providers
Stable vehicle supply, and consistent account management and customer service have become key factors when appointing a contract hire provider. That.......
Read more >>
New Transparency Rules for Speed Cameras
Speed camera information will be published by local authorities and the police showing the numbers of accidents and casualties at camera sites,.......
Read more >>
New Insurance Law Comes into Force
New rules for vehicle insurance came into force on 20 June 2011 aimed at reducing the level of uninsured driving in the UK. The Continuous Insurance.......
Read more >>
Accurate Mileage Records Essential as HMRC Gets Tough
Companies are being warned to be extra vigilant with their mileage records after the HMRC announced it was adopting a tougher stance on mileage.......
Read more >>
New Technology to Improve Fuel Efficiency
New technology due for launch in the next few years is set to double the efficiency of combustion engines and halve their CO2 emissions. The.......
Read more >>
Have Your Say on Government Red Tape
Companies and private motorists are being given the chance to comment on over 400 Whitehall road transport regulations which have been placed on.......
Read more >>
Advisory Fuel Rates to Be Reviewed Quarterly
From June 1st the HMRC will apply new rules to their Advisory Fuel Rates which will include a quarterly review as well as a fairer interpretation.......
Read more >>
Opt Out Drivers Head Back to the Company Car
A growing number of drivers who opted out of their company car schemes three or four years ago, instead taking a cash option to fund and run their.......
Read more >>
Avoidable Faults Cause a 20% Increase in Driver Downtime
A rising number of vehicle breakdowns are completely avoidable, with lost productivity leaping by 20% due to drivers being stranded at the side.......
Read more >>
Fleet Software Alone is Not a Solution
A Borough Council that invested in fleet software to reduce operating costs is promoting its success to other local authorities as a means of saving.......
Read more >>
Fleet Registrations Rise in March as Businesses Continue to Order
Figures published by the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) show that new vehicles registered for fleet use rose to 45.4% in March.......
Read more >>
Benefits of Being Independent Continue to Grow
Companies operating vehicle fleets are increasingly seeing the benefits of working with high quality, independent contract hire and leasing firms. According.......
Read more >>
BMW X5 Is the Most Stolen Car in the UK
The BMW X5 has been given the title of “UK’s most desirable car for thieves.” In fact it has held this dubious title for the.......
Read more >>
New Parking Surcharge Announced for Diesels
As drivers of gas guzzlers and high emission cars continue to face increasing bills, pre Euro5 diesel-powered vehicles could now start seeing higher.......
Read more >>
A Good Time to Order as a May Interest Rate Rise is Predicted
Companies could benefit from locking into the current low interest rates for the next 3 to 4 years by placing their contract hire orders before.......
Read more >>
Future BIK Rates Leave Company Car Drivers Gambling
Company car drivers are being warned to err on the side of caution when choosing their next company car, with the advanced notification of Benefit.......
Read more >>
Higher Emission Smaller Fleets Are Paying Over the Odds
According to the SMMT (Society of Motor Traders and Manufacturers) businesses running fleets of less than 25 vehicles are operating with the highest.......
Read more >>
March Budget Summary for Business Fleets
For businesses operating vehicle fleets, the recent Budget saw changes to fuel price duty, company car benefit-in-kind tax, Approved Mileage Allowance.......
Read more >>
Online Fleet Management Systems Offer Efficiency, But Companies Still Expect the Personal Touch
One thing has dominated the fleet sector in recent years – the development of online solutions. Whether it’s the ability to access.......
Read more >>
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Promotes Phil Elms to the Position of Sales Director
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts is pleased to announce the promotion of Phil Elms to the role of Sales Director. Gary Benfield, Managing Director.......
Read more >>
Companies Operating Van Fleets Urged to Check Their Tyres
VOSA has reported that the most frequent prohibition defect at spot checks on light goods vehicles across the country relates to tyres. From.......
Read more >>
HMRC to Advise on AFR Revisions
An announcement is imminent from the HMRC regarding the advisory fuel rates in light of continued fuel price rises. The most recent adjustment.......
Read more >>
Good Quality Advice Far Outweighs Cheap Rates When It Comes to Making Savings
There are many businesses looking at how they can reduce their vehicle fleet overheads in 2011, however simply pursuing the cheapest rate isn’t.......
Read more >>
Used Car Values Drop in 2010
Average wholesale used car values fell by 4.4% in 2010 compared with 2009, which equates to an average drop of or £306 per vehicle. According.......
Read more >>
Fuel Efficient Fleet Policies Top Agenda
With fuel prices at an all time high, having risen by £1 a gallon over the last 12 months, many companies are reviewing their vehicle policies.......
Read more >>
Driver Appetite for Hybrids and Electric Vehicles Soars
Glass’s has revealed that the number of people thinking of buying a plug-in hybrid or battery electric car as their next vehicle purchase.......
Read more >>
Free Driver Safety Advice
Please be safe during this festive period. With increased drinking at lunchtime and socialising at home, many drivers lose track of what they.......
Read more >>
Snow Joke – £60 Fine and 3 Points for Snow on Your Roof
We’ll leave it for you to decide whether to laugh, agree or curse at this story. However, it’s been reported in the national press.......
Read more >>
Keep Your Options Open in 2011 – A Look at Short Term Leasing
The last 18 months have seen a large rise in the demand for flexibility. Economic uncertainty has led to a lack of confidence and, when taking on.......
Read more >>
The End of Another Year – But a Year of Progress at Sandicliffe Motor Contracts
It’s the end of another year and a time when we begin to reflect on 2010. But to look at what’s now being offered to Sandicliffe.......
Read more >>
Snow, Ice, Travel Chaos and Christmas
When we were hit with unprecedented levels of snow at the start of this year, none of us would have believed that 2010 would end the same way as.......
Read more >>
20% VAT to Prompt Increased Interest in Contract Hire
There is just 1 month to go before VAT rises to 20%. And many fleet industry commentators expect it to cause more VAT registered companies to look.......
Read more >>
Reporting Vehicle Accidents Could be Compulsory
The creation of a new reporting system to record at-work accidents involving vehicles could find its way onto the Government’s agenda. Under.......
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Serious Injuries Rise by 3% for Every 5 Degree Temperature Drop
As we face the first serious ‘cold snap’ of winter, news images from all over the UK show vehicles being stuck in snow or having accidents. And.......
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Is that Journey Really Necessary? – Making Savings by Reducing Business Mileage
When you are paying around £5 for a gallon of fuel, expenses at 40p a mile, getting delayed on our congested roads and seeing well paid members.......
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Triton Showers – A Longstanding Partnership
In May 1975 Triton Showers began as Triton Aquatherm Ltd manufacturing one shower in a garage in Atherstone. Now owned by Norcros plc, Triton.......
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Sub-100g/km CO2 cars to be exempt from Congestion Charge
All cars under 100g/km CO2 which meet Euro 5 compliancy will be exempt from the London congestion charge from 4 January 2011, after paying a £10.......
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Winter - The Most Expensive Time of the Year
It's around this time of year that Sandicliffe Motor Contracts puts out an announcement advising drivers to check their vehicles and take greater.......
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New car fuel economy up 7.64%. Do You Have the Most Efficient Vehicles on Your Fleet?
The average fuel economy of new cars in the UK has improved by 7.64 per cent in the past year, prompting many companies to review their vehicle.......
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Focus on Fleet Costs Set to Intensify
Controlling fleet costs will become an increasingly important focus for both the public and private sectors in the next 12 months. However, the.......
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Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Appoints New Regional Sales Manager
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has expanded its sales team with the appointment of David Casserley. With extensive experience of sales and account.......
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Lower CO2 Equals Lower Tax
It was April 2002 when company car tax rates became based on CO2 emissions. And at the time it had little impact on company car drivers because.......
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Road injuries and fatalities cost UK economy £33 billion last year
The Government has decided to place an estimate on the total cost of road deaths and injuries to the economy, including factors never incorporated.......
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New Mondeo Diesel Will Hit Lowest CO2 Tax Band
Good news for company car drivers as Ford has revealed it is launching a sub-120g/km Mondeo in February. At present, very low tax models within.......
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Businesses Focus on an Important Three Months
As we move out of the summer holidays, most businesses see September, October and November as a crucial trading period before Christmas arrives. For.......
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Clamping on Private Land to be Banned
Wheel clamping on private land will come to an end in November in a bid to stop rogue operators exploiting drivers by charging excessive fines. The.......
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Fuel Prices Set to Hit an All Time High
The Retail Motor Industry Independent Petrol Retailers Association (RMI Petrol) is warning businesses to expect a significant rise in the cost of.......
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New V5c Registration Document Introduced
A new style V5c vehicle registration document (logbook) has been introduced by the DVLA, not only changing colour, from blue to red, but also containing.......
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Fuel Card Popularity Grows as Fleets Look to Control Costs
With the cost of fuel being so high, many companies are actively looking at ways of driving down costs. A fleet of 100 cars can run up an annual.......
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Top 10 Crash for Cash Spots
A survey by Direct Line insurance has identified the UK's top ten ‘crash for cash' hotspots, where fraudsters fake accidents by making unnecessary.......
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Drivers Need to be Reminded About the Importance of Vehicle Checks
For many companies operating fleets of vehicles, there is a huge reliance on the driver to ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy. However, irrespctive.......
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Where Are Your Company Vehicles Travelling to This Summer?
With weather forecasters predicting a hot British Summer, the Camping and Caravanning Club has said that bookings for pitches at sites in the UK.......
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Lack of Screenwash Poses Legionnaires' Disease Risk
Fleet managers should warn all drivers to make sure their windscreen wiper fluid is topped up with screenwash after a survey showed evidence that.......
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12 Month Old Fiestas are Incredible Value for Money
A year ago Sandicliffe Motor Contracts won a major contract through its courtesy car leasing division for a high volume of Ford Fiesta's. With.......
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Making Commercial Sense
Agreeing the optimum way of operating a commercial vehicle fleet holds a large number of variables. - Identifying the correct number of vehicles.......
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VAT Increase in the Budget Places Greater Focus on Contract Hire
The announcement that VAT will rise to 20% in 2011 will cause more businesses to look at the benefits of contract hire, according to the BVRLA (British.......
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New Code of Conduct for Vans
The FTA (Freight Transport Association) has launched a Van Excellence Code aimed at providing van operators with an agreed code of conduct to follow. Already.......
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Are Your Drivers Eligible to be Driving At All?
Driving licences have come under increased scrutiny this month. The Licence Bureau reported an instance where someone who had been banned for.......
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The Art of Deduction – How to use Additional Support Services to Reduce Fleet Costs
When it comes to finding a suitable fleet funding and management service, most companies focus on their core requirement – with contract hire.......
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New Rules for Personal Injury Claims Begin on 30th April
Drivers who injure another party in a blameworthy accident will need to respond quickly to avoid losing their insurance indemnity, under new personal.......
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HMRC rules out AFR rate rise
HMRC has ruled out any review of its advisory fuel rate (AFRs) before the scheduled June 1 review. This means that with fuel prices hitting.......
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Professional Delivery
Choices have been made, colours and specifications agreed, an order placed and the company car is due for delivery. For the fleet manager, it’s.......
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Driver Training Online? Is That Really Possible?
At Sandicliffe Motor Contracts we’re always looking to help our customers reduce costs. But when we mention that we can offer online driver.......
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“Driver” Management Becomes a New Focus for Fleet Managers
Companies operating fleets of vehicles are being advised to place greater focus on the management of their drivers according to Phil Elms, National.......
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Offering a cash Allowance? – It could be costing you and your drivers money
It wasn't many years ago the Government was taxing drivers out of the company car. But with the Chancellor improving the tax incentives to drive.......
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Professional Partners - a case study of Danwood
Danwood is the UK’s largest independent supplier of office printing equipment and document management solutions. Printers, copiers, multifunctional.......
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Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Launches New 4 Page Newsletter
We are always looking at better ways of offering advice and information to our clients. Which is why we have launched a 4 page newsletter packed.......
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Budget Summary - March 2010
Last week saw the final Budget prior to a General Election and there was nothing too significant for fleet operators apart from a few items worth.......
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Warning Over Private Cars Used for Business Purposes
You may have heard the phrase "Grey Fleet" - the term for employees who drive their own vehicle for business use. And the reason why.......
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Small knocks and scrapes are costing fleets thousands in unnecessary repairs
When a driver has a small knock or scrape caused by reversing into a post, catching the side of their vehicle as they pull out of a tight entrance,.......
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Fuel Cards a Great Tool for Controlling Costs
Its not uncommon for a relatively standard car to run up an annual fuel bill of up to £2500 (assuming its doing around 20,000 miles per annum). Across.......
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Sandicliffe Motor Contracts Wins Contract With Inspired Gaming Group
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts, the Long Eaton-based contract hire and leasing specialist, has won an order to supply 35 vehicles to Midlands-based.......
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Sale and Leaseback Interest on the Increase as Companies Seek to Raise Cash for Vital Growth Plans
With 2010 truly underway, the signs of an economic recovery are strong and optimism is growing. And as many businesses seek to capitalise on.......
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Place your orders before the manufacturers' price increases
If you have orders to place in the first quarter of 2010, it is well worth speaking to us about likely motor manufacturer price increases. By.......
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Say Goodbye to Recharges as New Tyre Scheme is Launched
Sandicliffe Motor Contracts has launched a new tyre scheme with unlimited replacements and no recharges. This means within your fixed cost maintenance.......
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Diesel Can Freeze In Low Temperatures - Fleets are Warned
Independent contract hire and leasing specialist, Sandicliffe Motor Contracts, is warning fleet operators that diesel can freeze in very cold conditions. Caused.......
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2009 - A Year of Progress
No-one could argue that 2009 has been the year of depressing national headlines. However, at Sandicliffe Motor Contracts we're proud that it.......
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Privileged Purchase Programme Launched
New for 2010 is Sandicliffe Motor Contracts' "Privileged Purchase Programme" which is being launched in January. This is a scheme which.......
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Drink Driving Awareness Programme
Please be safe during this festive period. With increased drinking at lunchtime and socialising at home, many drivers lose track of what they.......
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