Steves Self Drive

Business Details

44 Years

experience

Car & Van Hire in Southend-on-Sea

Established in 1982, Steves Self Drive has evolved from a commercial vehicle specialist to a comprehensive rental provider serving Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas. Our commitment to quality and value remains unchanged since introducing cars to our fleet in 1989, with modern facilities established in 2000. As members of the United Rental Group since 2003, we maintain industry-leading standards while investing in eco-friendly vehicles with low emissions and advanced features like air-conditioning.

Our fleet spans over 40 vehicles including cars, MPVs, minibuses, and specialist trucks, all ULEZ-compliant to meet environmental regulations. We serve both individual and business clients across 25+ local areas from Ashingdon to Woodham Ferrers, combining decades of operational experience with continuous fleet modernisation. Our team prioritises customer satisfaction through competitive pricing, transparent terms, and vehicles maintained to the highest safety standards.

Services

Car Hire Van Hire Minibus Hire Luton Van Hire Automatic Van Hire Dropside Trucks Tippers Contract Hire Vehicle Disposals ULEZ Compliant Vehicles

Details

Year established: 1982

Highlights and features

We have over 40 years of experience in vehicle rental since 1982
Our fleet includes over 40 ULEZ-compliant vehicles for environmental compliance
We operate across 25+ local areas in Southeast Essex
We offer modern vehicles with features like air-conditioning and hybrid options
We are members of the United Rental Group with 500+ quality providers

Website

Update Listing

Services

Car Hire

We offer a comprehensive range of car hire options including compact models like the Toyota Aygo X and hybrid vehicles such as the Kia Sportage GT Line. Our fleet features manual and automatic transmission options with air conditioning, catering to both personal and business requirements. All vehicles meet ULEZ and Clean Air Zone compliance standards.

Van Hire

Our van hire service includes modern commercial vehicles from leading manufacturers like Ford, Vauxhall, and Volkswagen. Options range from Citroen Berlingo models to larger Crafter LWB vans, all equipped with air conditioning and meeting environmental regulations. We provide both manual and automatic transmission options.

Minibus Hire

We provide minibuses accommodating 9 to 17 passengers, ideal for group transportation needs. The fleet includes Ford Transit Custom Tourneo models and 17-seat minibuses, all featuring air conditioning and meeting ULEZ compliance standards for environmental regulations in urban areas.

Luton Van Hire

Our Luton van hire service offers vehicles with tail lifts and ample cargo space, suitable for commercial transportation requirements. Available models include Volkswagen Crafter Luton variants with diesel engines and air conditioning, designed for efficient goods transportation while meeting emission standards.

Contract Hire

We offer contract hire solutions for businesses requiring extended vehicle use. This service provides access to modern commercial vehicles with maintenance support, allowing companies to benefit from our extensive fleet experience and industry expertise in fleet management operations.

Questions

What types of vehicles are available for hire?

We offer cars, vans, minibuses, Luton vans, dropside trucks, and tippers with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Are your vehicles ULEZ compliant?

Yes, all our vehicles meet ULEZ and Clean Air Zone requirements for environmental compliance in urban areas.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Southend-on-Sea and surrounding areas including Basildon, Chelmsford, Leigh on Sea, and 20+ other local locations.

What are your business hours?

We operate Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-Midday. Closed Sundays and bank holidays.

Do you offer long-term rental options?

Yes, we provide contract hire solutions for businesses requiring extended vehicle use with maintenance support included.

Can I hire a vehicle with air conditioning?

Most vehicles in our fleet feature air conditioning, including commercial vehicles introduced since 2008.

Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Mike Sambrook

Nov 10, 2021 Report

Always good, I have used Steve for 30 years now . Both vans and cars. Never failed me once. Top company.

Dani Carter

Oct 12, 2021 Report

I would have given 5 stars as you were, quick and easy to book with. However you charged 5.42 fuel charge even though we returned the van having just filled up the tank 2 minutes down the road.
Having queried this with you, you have ignored my emails. It's amazing how poor your customer service can be once you have already charged the customer. Well done for thieving an extra 5 off your customers with no explanation. Enjoy your Christmas drinks on us

Dave T.

Oct 10, 2021 Report

I've used this company 2 or 3 times over the years and always found them to be genuine, honest and reliable. Vans are new, clean and well maintained, staff are helpful and informative. I couldn't fault their service hence the 5 star review.

Zell K.

Aug 30, 2021 Report

Used these guys last weekend, great company, quick and easy service. Would very much recommend using them if you're looking to hire a vehicle.

Chris Potts

Mar 30, 2021 Report

Steve's hire have always been a brilliant company to hire from, easy going, polite and professional. They always try their best to accommodate my requirements even at short notice. Many thanks Chris.

Peter C.

Nov 03, 2020 Report

Hired a van to take some of our daughter's belongings to Canterbury. Van was good, almost new. Prices are competitive and staff friendly and helpful.