Gearing Up for Success: 10 Essential Equipment for Every PCO Driver 2025

A comfortable seat cushion can also prevent back pain, keeping you focused on your job.

Moreover, having adequate equipment can help you earn more income as you can take on more jobs efficiently. In fact, studies show that professional-grade GPS systems can increase a driver’s efficiency, leading to more earnings and positive reviews by passengers.

Also, you’ll be left behind in the highly competitive transportation industry without the right essential equipment for PCO drivers.

And that’s why we are here; in this blog post, we will explore essential equipment for PCO drivers to have a safe, comfortable, and profitable driving experience.

So let’s get started!

1. Professional Grade GPS

For PCO drivers, a professional-grade GPS system is not just a luxury but a necessity.

A professional-grade GPS is a high-end navigation system that offers superior accuracy, reliability, and functionality compared to conventional GPS systems.

These devices usually come with large, clear screens and offer real-time traffic updates, detailed route planning, points of interest relevant to professional drivers, and even weather information. Some professional-grade GPS devices also include features such as lane assist and speed limit alerts.

These systems are not your standard GPS systems and apps; that is why we have put professional GPS systems as essential equipment for PCO drivers.

Here are some tips when using these GPS systems;

Update your system’s software regularly for accurate navigation.
While GPS is reliable, always cross-check with road signs and landmarks.
Utilize the points of interest feature to find nearby gas stations, restaurants, etc.

2. Good Data Plan

Ever wondered how your GPS app manages to reroute you around a sudden traffic jam so efficiently? How can you easily accept a ride request from your passenger? Moreover, as you drive, the app updates in real-time, helping you avoid traffic and guiding you to your destination with turn-by-turn instructions.

That’s your data plan working behind the scenes, fetching real-time traffic updates.

A good mobile data plan is more than just an add-on; it’s essential equipment for every PCO driver. The apps you use to connect with passengers require a stable internet connection to operate smoothly. Any disruption in the service can lead to missed rides or frustrated customers, impacting your earnings and ratings.

When choosing a data plan, here are some points you need to keep in mind;

Opt for plans with high or unlimited data limits to avoid running out of data mid-shift.
Choose a provider with strong network coverage.
Consider the cost per GB of data, not just the plan’s overall price.
Be aware of any lock-in periods.

3. First Aid Kit

As a PCO driver, you know your vehicle is more than just a car, it’s your workplace, and sometimes unexpected situations can happen. In these situations, a first aid kit can make a significant difference.

Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere – a passenger might get a cut, or a driver could sustain a minor burn from a hot engine part. A first aid kit allows immediate response to such minor injuries, preventing them from escalating into major health issues.

It also serves as a personal safety net for you.

A well-stocked first aid kit for a PCO driver should ideally include bandages and dressing, antiseptic wipes, disposable gloves, pain relievers, a digital thermometer, and a CPR face shield.

When trying to manage a first aid kit in your vehicle, keep the following tips in mind;

Keep it as accessible as you can, maybe in the glove compartment of your car.
Regularly check if all the items are in good condition, also keep a check on the expiry dates of medicines too.
Consider getting basic first aid training. This knowledge can be invaluable in an emergency situation.

4. Dash Cam

A dash cam, short for a dashboard camera, is essential for every PCO driver. As the name suggests, it’s a camera that’s usually mounted on the car’s dashboard or windscreen, capturing everything that happens while you’re driving.

The most significant benefit of a dashcam is that it provides first-hand evidence in the event of an accident. Dash cams work by recording video and audio continuously when the car is running.

It can also provide proof if someone intentionally causes an accident to claim insurance. These cams also provide security as these cams offer a parking mode, which means they continue to operate even when your car is parked, providing surveillance against theft or vandalism.

When using a dashcam, here are some quick tips;

Ensure your dash cam doesn’t obstruct your view of the road.
Choose a high-quality dash cam; a blurry video won’t help you in case of accidents or disputes.
Clean the lens and check the camera regularly.

5. A Phone Mount for the Dash Cam

A phone mount is a device that secures your smartphone in a fixed position on your vehicle’s dashboard or windscreen. As a PCO driver, you’re likely to use your phone for navigation, communication, or managing rideshare apps. A phone mount helps make these tasks safer and more convenient, making it an essential piece of equipment for PCO drivers.

It allows for hands-free operation, enabling you to focus on the road while still being able to glance at the screen for directions or notifications as the phone is kept at eye level.

Moreover, in the UK, holding your phone while driving is illegal. Using a phone mount can help you abide by these laws, avoiding hefty fines or penalties.

When using a phone mount for a dash cam, here are a few tips to follow;

There are various types of mounts in the market; choose the one that suits your needs.
Place it where you can easily see your phone screen without blocking your view of the road.

6. A Reliable Smartphone

With ride-hailing and delivery services increasingly moving to app-based platforms, a smartphone is no longer just a communication device – it’s a critical tool that helps drivers stay connected, navigate routes, manage bookings, and much more.

From Uber to Bolt to Lyft, these platforms enable drivers to receive job notifications, accept bookings, communicate with customers, and navigate routes. Without a smartphone that can reliably run these apps, drivers could miss out on potential earnings.

A good smartphone with a clear display can help drivers follow navigation maps more accurately, reducing the chances of getting lost or missing turns. These can also help you with receiving payments and more.

Here are some quick tips when choosing and using a smartphone;

Opt for a model known for its durability to handle some wear and tear.
Look for models with long battery life and invest in a quality car charger.
Regularly update your phone’s software and apps to ensure they run smoothly and securely.

7. USB Car Charger

With the heavy reliance on smartphones and other electronic devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment, keeping a mode to charge these devices is important.

A USB car charger is a small device that plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or 12V power socket. It converts your car’s electrical system from 12V to the 5V most consumer electronics use. It allows you to charge devices like smartphones, tablets, or dashcams via a USB cable. 

A dead phone during a shift can mean missed jobs, lost income, and potential safety risks. A USB car charger can also benefit your passengers. Offering a charging facility can improve their experience.

When buying or using a USB car charger, here are some tips to keep in mind;

Opt for a charger with multiple ports, so you can charge more than one device at a time.
Check that the charger is compatible with your devices to ensure efficient charging.
Invest in good quality cables, as the quality of your USB cable can affect charging speed.

8. Tyre Pressure Gauge

A tyre pressure gauge is an invaluable tool that should be considered essential equipment for PCO drivers. This small, portable device measures the pressure of your vehicle’s tyres, helping you ensure they are always inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended.

A pressure gauge is important for the safety of your car as underinflated tyres can overheat, increasing the risk of a blowout, while over-inflated tyres can lead to poor vehicle handling on the road.

Moreover, tyre pressure affects fuel efficiency. Incorrect tyre pressure can increase rolling resistance, so your vehicle must work harder and burn more fuel to move forward. It can also help you with maximizing the lifespan of your tyres.

Using a tyre pressure gauge is not difficult, but here are a few tips to keep in mind;

Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold, as heat can increase tyre pressure.
Tyre pressure should be checked at least once a month and before long trips.
Use a digital gauge, which is typically easier to read and offers more precise readings.

9. Tow Strap

A tow strap is certainly an essential piece of equipment for a PCO driver. It’s a sturdy strap, typically made from high-strength nylon or polyester, designed to pull a vehicle stuck or unable to move independently.

Keeping a tow strap can be beneficial in tricky situations. Whether your vehicle has broken down, got stuck in a ditch, or is trapped in snow or mud, a tow strap can be a real lifesaver. By connecting your vehicle to another vehicle with a tow strap, you can be pulled to safety.

When it comes to keeping a tow strap, here are a few things to keep in mind;

Tow straps come with specific weight ratings. Ensure the strap you choose is suitable for the weight of your vehicle.
Check your tow strap regularly for wear and tear. If it shows signs of damage, replace it immediately.
When towing, remember that the other vehicle should move slowly, as a single jerk can cause big damage.

10. Spare Tyre & Toolkit

No matter how well you maintain your vehicle, flat tyres can happen unexpectedly, and having the right tools at hand can make all the difference. 

A spare tyre, as the name suggests, is an extra tyre that you carry in your vehicle. In case of a flat or damaged tyre, the spare can be used to replace it, enabling you to continue your journey without significant delay.

The toolkit, on the other hand, is needed to make this tyre change possible. It typically includes a jack to lift the car; a lug wrench to remove and tighten the lug nuts; and possibly other helpful tools like a

As a PCO driver, time is money. Waiting for roadside assistance can take a lot of time, during which you could earn. With a spare tyre and toolkit, you can quickly return to the road.

Here are some quick tips for managing your toolkit and spare tyre;

Ensure your spare tyre is always properly inflated and your toolkit is complete and in good condition.
Know how to change a tyre without assistance.

Wrapping Up!

To sum it up, it is essential to have the right equipment in your car as a PCO driver. From a reliable smartphone to a USB car charger, a tyre pressure gauge, a tow strap, and a spare tire with a toolkit, these tools significantly enhance your efficiency, safety, and overall driving experience.

Similarly, choosing the right PCO car rental company, like G&M Direct Hire, can offer additional benefits, such as access to eco-friendly electric vehicles and exceptional customer service. As a PCO driver, equipping yourself with the right tools and partnering with a supportive rental company can significantly contribute to your success on the road. So what are you waiting for? Contact us now to kickstart your journey as a PCO driver!