Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Car & Van Hire Services in Poole
Established in 1982, U Drive has grown from a local Dorset hire business to a nationwide network operating 9 locations across England and Wales. Founded by Dave and Gill Hamblin, our family-owned company now employs over 150 staff and maintains a fleet of 4,000+ vehicles. With directors Mark Hamblin and Richard Sutton bringing over 30 years of industry expertise each, we combine generational knowledge with modern fleet management. Our commitment to customer care remains unchanged since day one, evidenced by our exemplary service guarantee and transparent damage recharge process. As a carbon-neutral supplier, we prioritise sustainable practices while maintaining competitive pricing through our trade-price vehicle sales division.Our Solent 250 recognition and Employer of the Year finalist status reflect our dedication to both business excellence and employee welfare. We specialise in providing tailored vehicle solutions for both personal and business clients, including short-term rentals, long-term contracts, and ex-fleet vehicle sales. Our 24/7 online booking system and nationwide branch network ensure convenience for all customers. Through continuous investment in electric vehicle infrastructure and staff development, we maintain our position at the forefront of the vehicle hire industry.
Services
Car Hire
Van Hire
Truck Hire
Business Vehicle Hire
EV Hire
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in vehicle hire
- Our family-owned business ensures personalized service
- We operate a fleet of over 4,000 vehicles across 9 locations
- Our commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in our exemplary service
- We offer a wide range of vehicles to meet all hire needs
What people say
Exemplary customer service
Van ready early
Very clean vehicles
Painless experience
Best weekend return policy
Services
Car Hire
U Drive offers comprehensive car hire solutions across the UK with a modern fleet of vehicles. Our service caters to both short-term and long-term requirements, providing reliable transport options for personal journeys and business needs. With competitive pricing and flexible booking options, our car hire service ensures customers receive value for money while benefiting from our 40+ years of industry expertise.
Van Hire
Our van hire service provides access to a diverse fleet of commercial and passenger vans. Ideal for home moves, business transportation, or equipment transport, our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. Customers benefit from our nationwide branch network and transparent pricing structure, with options for both short-term and long-term hire periods to accommodate varying business requirements.
Business Vehicle Hire
Tailored vehicle solutions for businesses across multiple sectors including construction, utilities, and local government. Our business hire service offers discounted rates, fleet management support, and dedicated account management. With nationwide coverage and a modern fleet of 4,000+ vehicles, we provide reliable transport solutions that scale with business needs while maintaining environmental responsibility.
EV Hire
U Drive's electric vehicle hire service supports businesses transitioning to low-emission transport. Our EV fleet includes the latest models with comprehensive charging guidance provided. As a carbon-neutral supplier, we offer expert consultancy on EV integration alongside charging infrastructure advice, making us a trusted partner for sustainable business transport solutions across the UK.
Vehicle Sales
Our vehicle sales division offers ex-fleet stock at competitive trade prices with full transparency. Customers benefit from professionally prepared vehicles that meet dealership standards, with optional extended warranties and servicing packages. The U-Trade platform provides additional convenience for trade customers seeking pipeline stock solutions with customisable branding and pricing options.
People
Mark Hamblin
Director
Mark Hamblin, son of founders Dave and Gill, has over 30 years' experience in the vehicle hire industry. He plays a key role in strategic decision-making and business development at U Drive.
Richard Sutton
Director
Richard Sutton brings more than three decades of vehicle industry expertise to his director role at U Drive. His leadership focuses on operational excellence and maintaining the company's growth trajectory.
Dave Hamblin
Founder
Dave Hamblin co-founded U Drive in 1982 with his wife Gill. Though semi-retired, he continues to contribute his extensive industry knowledge to the family business.
Gill Hamblin
Founder
Gill Hamblin started vehicle hire operations from her home in 1974 with husband Dave. She remains actively involved in the business she helped establish, contributing to its continued success.
Questions
What types of vehicles do you hire?
We offer car hire, van hire, truck hire, minibus hire and specialist vehicles across our UK branch network.
Can businesses get discounted rates?
Yes, we provide exclusive discounted business rates for corporate clients through our dedicated business hire service.
Do you offer electric vehicle hire?
Yes, we have a growing range of electric vehicles available for hire with comprehensive charging guidance provided.
What are your opening hours?
Our Poole branch operates Monday-Friday 7am-6pm, Saturday 8am-12:30pm, and Sunday 8am-11am.
How can I book a vehicle?
Book online through our website, contact us directly on 0800 980 9966, or visit your nearest branch for assistance.
Do you sell used vehicles?
Yes, we offer ex-fleet vehicles for sale through our U-Drive Vehicle Sales division and U-Trade platform.
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