Fleet Solutions

Deciding which option is best for you

There are multiple factors to consider when deciding if you should rent from our fleet, purchase a vehicle, or use a privately owned vehicle.

	Personal Vehicle	Rental From Fleet	Purchasing
LIABILITY	You are liable for all damages in the event of an accident.	Fleet Services covers damages in the event of an accident.	Your department is liable for all damages in the event of an accident.
USAGE	Using a Personal Vehicle (POV) Mid-size Sedan At 50 miles, driving a personal vehicle costs $29 compared to $40.50 for a Fleet rental. At 75 miles, the costs are nearly the same: $43.50 to drive POV versus $43.75 to rent. By 100 miles, a personal vehicle costs $58, while the rental is still only $47. The break-even point is about 75 miles.	Rent if: Mileage is above break-even. The vehicle will be unused 4-6 days a week. The vehicle will be used seasonally / for a specific purpose.	Purchase if: Regularly use the vehicle throughout the year. You need to carry specialized equipment.
FLEXIBILITY	You are limited to using whatever vehicle you own.	Choose whatever kind of vehicle you need and for whatever duration of time.	You are committed to the vehicle for the long term.
BUDGET	Mileage reimbursement accounts for gas, wear and tear, and any incidents that may occur.	All liability and maintenance costs (and in some cases, fuel) are assumed by the university.	Departments are responsible for the cost of the vehicle, maintenance, insurance, options, and tag & title service.
MAINTENANCE	Owners are responsible for storing, maintaining, insuring, and ensuring compliance with their own vehicles.	Maintenance and insurance are covered by Fleet Services.	Departments are responsible for maintenance and insurance which could be up to $2,605 for a truck over 3 years.
SUSTAINABILITY	The university has no control over the age of the vehicle, mechanical soundness, fuel efficiency, etc.	Our fleet has the latest vehicle models including electric vehicles, ensuring lower emissions and the newest safety features.	Fleet Services can help you find a vehicle to ensure mechanical soundness, fuel efficiency, specialized needs, etc.

It can be challenging to determine what vehicle solution will best fit your needs. Contact Fleet Services at fleetservices@umd.edu or (301) 405-5482 to consult with us and find the best solution.