The need for group transportation has always been significant in the UK, whether it’s for family gatherings, corporate events, school trips, or community outings. One of the most popular and practical solutions for transporting a larger number of people is the use of a minibus. Among the various options available, the 19 seater Minibus Hire with Driver stands out for its balance of size and capacity, providing enough room for small to medium groups without the cumbersome size of larger coaches.
But can you really get a 19 seater minibus in the UK? The answer is yes, but with several factors to consider. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding, renting, buying, and legally operating a 19 seater minibus and 16 seater minibus in the UK.
19 Seater Minibus
Definition and Specifications
A 19 seater minibus is a vehicle designed to carry up to 19 passengers, excluding the driver. These minibuses are slightly larger than the standard 16-seater models, offering additional seating capacity while still maintaining maneuverability on narrow UK roads.
Typically, a 19 seater minibus will have:
Seating Capacity
19 passengers
Engine Size
Usually ranging from 2.2L to 3.0L diesel engines
Dimensions
Length around 7.3 meters, width around 2.3 meters
Features
Air conditioning, high-backed seats, luggage space, seat belts, and sometimes advanced entertainment systems.
Popular Models in the UK
Several manufacturers produce minibuses that can be configured to accommodate 19 passengers.
Some of the most popular models include:
Ford Transit Minibus
Known for its reliability and ease of handling.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Offers luxury features and is a favorite for executive transport.
Renault Master Minibus
A cost-effective option with practical features.
Iveco Daily Minibus
Often used for schools and community groups due to its robust design.
Why Choose a 19 Seater Minibus?
Advantages of a 19 Seater Minibus
There are several reasons why a 19 seater minibus in the UK might be the perfect choice for your transportation needs:
Cost-Effective
Renting or purchasing a single 19 seater minibus is often more economical than hiring multiple smaller vehicles.
Convenience
Keeping a group together in one vehicle simplifies logistics and enhances group cohesion.
Flexibility
Whether for long trips or short hauls, a 19 seater minibus can easily adapt to various travel requirements.
Safety
Modern 19 seater minibuses come equipped with advanced safety features, ensuring the well-being of all passengers.
Use Cases
School Trips
Many schools prefer 19 seater minibuses for transporting small classes or teams to events.
Corporate Events
Businesses often use these minibuses for shuttling employees to conferences or training sessions.
Community and Church Groups
Ideal for group outings, ensuring everyone arrives together.
Airport Transfers
Efficient for moving larger families or groups to and from airports.
Renting a 19 Seater Minibus in the UK
Rental Requirements
When looking to rent a 19 seater minibus in the UK, several requirements must be met:
Driver’s License
The driver must have a valid UK driving license with category D1 entitlement. This category allows individuals to drive minibuses with more than 8 passengers but up to 16 without additional qualifications. For a 19 seater, some rental companies might require the driver to have a full PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) license.
Age
Most rental companies require the driver to be at least 25 years old, with some even setting the minimum age at 30.
Experience
A minimum of 2 years of driving experience is often required.
Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is typically included in the rental agreement, but you should verify the coverage details and consider additional insurance if necessary.
Rental Costs
The cost of renting a 19 seater minibus in the UK can vary based on several factors:
Duration
Daily rates are common, but long-term rentals can offer discounts.
Season
Prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year, with peak seasons (like summer and holidays) generally being more expensive.
Mileage
Some rental agreements include unlimited mileage, while others may charge per mile.
Extras
Adding a second driver, GPS, or additional insurance can increase the cost.
Top Rental Companies
Several reputable companies in the UK offer 19 seater minibus rentals.
Some of the leading options include:
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Known for its extensive fleet and nationwide locations.
Sixt Rent A Car
Offers premium vehicles and a user-friendly online booking system.
Thrifty Car & Van Rental
Competitive pricing and flexible rental terms.
Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental
Family-owned business with a strong reputation for customer service.
Purchasing a 19 Seater Minibus in the UK
New vs. Used Minibuses
When considering buying a 19 seater minibus in the UK, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to buy new or used.
New Minibuses
Pros
New minibuses come with the latest technology, manufacturer warranties, and zero wear and tear. They can also be customized to your exact specifications.
Cons
The initial cost is significantly higher than purchasing a used vehicle, and depreciation is a factor to consider.
Used Minibuses
Pros
Used minibuses are more affordable and often come with a detailed history of maintenance and use. They are a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons
There may be some wear and tear, and the vehicle may not include the latest features or safety technologies.
Where to Buy
There are several places to purchase a 19 seater minibus in the UK:
Dealerships
Both new and used minibuses can be found at authorized dealerships. They offer the advantage of warranties and after-sales support.
Online Marketplaces
Websites like Auto Trader, eBay Motors, and Gumtree list a wide range of minibuses for sale.
Specialized Minibus Dealers
Companies like Minibus World and Bus 4×4 specialize in selling and converting minibuses and often offer bespoke options.
Costs of Purchasing
The price of a 19 seater minibus can vary widely depending on factors such as:
Make and Model
Premium brands like Mercedes-Benz will be more expensive than brands like Ford or Renault.
Age and Mileage
Newer vehicles or those with low mileage will cost more.
Condition
Well-maintained vehicles with a full service history are more valuable.
Customization
Adding features such as wheelchair accessibility, luxury seating, or advanced entertainment systems can increase the cost.
On average, a new 19 seater minibus might cost between £40,000 to £70,000, while a used one could range from £15,000 to £40,000 depending on condition and features.
Licensing and Legal Requirements
Driving a 19 Seater Minibus in the UK
Operating a 19 seater minibus in the UK requires adherence to specific licensing and legal requirements:
Driver’s License Categories
Category B License
Allows you to drive vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and with no more than 8 passenger seats. A 19 seater minibus exceeds these limits, so a Category B license is not sufficient.
Category D1 License
Permits you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats, provided the vehicle’s maximum length is not exceeded. However, for a 19 seater, you’ll need to have:
Category D License
This category allows you to drive any bus, including minibuses with more than 16 passenger seats.
Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)
If you’re driving the minibus for commercial purposes or on behalf of an organization (like a school or charity), you may also need to hold a Driver CPC qualification. This ensures you are trained to a professional standard in driving passengers safely.
Minibus MOT and Servicing
A 19 seater minibus must pass an annual MOT test, just like any other vehicle. However, the requirements can be more stringent, especially if the vehicle is used for hire or reward. Regular servicing is crucial to maintaining safety standards and ensuring the minibus operates efficiently.
Insurance Requirements
Minibus insurance is mandatory and should cover:
Third-Party Liability
This covers damage to other people and property in the event of an accident.
Comprehensive Coverage
This includes third-party liability as well as damage to your own vehicle, theft, and fire.
Public Liability
Essential if you’re using the minibus for business purposes, covering legal expenses if a passenger is injured.
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Conclusion
In summary, obtaining and operating a 19 seater minibus in the UK is entirely feasible, but it requires careful consideration of several factors. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, understanding the specific requirements, costs, and legal obligations is essential. With the right preparation and knowledge, a 19 seater minibus can be a valuable asset for transporting groups efficiently and comfortably across the UK.
FAQs about Can You Get A 19 Seater Minibus?
What types of driving licenses do I need to operate a 19 seater minibus in the UK?
To drive a 19 seater minibus in the UK, you typically need a Category D1 or D license.
- Category B License: This license allows you to drive vehicles with up to 8 passenger seats and weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, which is not sufficient for a 19 seater.
- Category D1 License: This allows you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats, provided they meet certain length criteria (maximum of 8 meters). However, it does not cover 19 seater minibuses.
- Category D License: To operate a 19 seater minibus, you will need a full Category D license, which permits you to drive any bus, including those with more than 16 passenger seats. If you intend to drive for hire or reward, you may also need a Driver CPC qualification, which requires additional training.
What are the insurance requirements for a 19 seater minibus?
Insurance for a 19 seater minibus in the UK is mandatory and typically includes several key components:
- Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is the minimum legal requirement and covers damage to other vehicles or property in the event of an accident caused by you.
- Comprehensive Insurance: This covers both third-party liabilities and damages to your own vehicle due to accidents, theft, or vandalism.
- Public Liability Insurance: If you are using the minibus for commercial purposes, such as transporting passengers for a fee, this insurance protects you against claims for injury or damage to third parties.
When renting or purchasing a minibus, it’s essential to review the insurance policies carefully to ensure adequate coverage for your needs.
How much does it cost to rent a 19 seater minibus in the UK?
The cost of renting a 19 seater minibus in the UK varies based on several factors:
- Rental Duration: Daily rates can range from £100 to £300, depending on the rental company and season. Long-term rentals may offer discounts.
- Seasonal Variability: Prices can increase during peak seasons, such as summer holidays or around Christmas, due to higher demand.
- Mileage: Some rental agreements include unlimited mileage, while others charge per mile, which can affect total costs.
- Extras: Additional features, such as a second driver, GPS, or child seats, can also add to the overall rental cost.
It’s advisable to compare prices from different rental companies and read the fine print to understand any additional fees that may apply.
What are the advantages of using a 19 seater minibus for group travel?
Using a 19 seater minibus in the UK offers several significant advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Renting or buying a single minibus is often more economical than hiring multiple smaller vehicles, especially for larger groups.
- Convenience: Traveling together in one vehicle simplifies logistics, reduces the risk of losing group members, and can enhance the overall experience.
- Comfort: Modern minibuses are equipped with features like air conditioning, comfortable seating, and ample luggage space, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers.
- Safety: Newer models come with advanced safety features such as anti-lock braking systems, stability control, and multiple airbags, enhancing passenger safety.
- Flexibility: Minibuses can be used for a wide range of events, including corporate outings, family gatherings, school trips, and more.
How do I maintain a 19 seater minibus to ensure safety and compliance?
Proper maintenance of a 19 seater minibus in the UK is essential to ensure safety and legal compliance:
- Regular Servicing: Schedule routine servicing according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes checking the engine, brakes, transmission, and tires.
- MOT Testing: The minibus must pass an annual MOT test, which assesses its roadworthiness. Ensure all required repairs are made before the test to avoid penalties.
- Cleaning and Upkeep: Regularly clean both the interior and exterior to maintain hygiene and aesthetic appeal. This also helps in identifying any wear and tear.
- Documentation: Keep records of all maintenance and servicing work, as well as your MOT certificates. This documentation is essential for insurance purposes and may be requested during inspections.
- Safety Equipment: Ensure that all safety equipment, such as seat belts, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, are present and in good condition.
By following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that your 19 seater minibus remains safe, reliable, and compliant with UK regulations.
