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Essential Documents for Your Vehicle Collection

A little preparation goes a long way. The right paperwork in hand means we can check you in quickly and get you on the road without delay. At Cargo Hire, we want your collection to be smooth from start to finish. As a family-run vehicle hire company in Rochester, Kent, with over 35 years' experience serving Medway and the surrounding areas, we've helped thousands of drivers hire with confidence. This guide explains exactly what to bring on the day, so there are no surprises at the desk.

Why We Need Your Documents

Asking for documents isn't red tape — it protects you, your vehicle, and us. Before we hand over the keys, our team needs to confirm a few essentials.

Here's why the checks matter:

  • Legal requirements — We must confirm you hold a valid licence to drive the vehicle you're hiring.
  • Insurance cover — Verifying your identity and driving record keeps your cover valid and correct.
  • Fraud protection — Confirming your details and payment card helps keep every handover secure.

Bring the right paperwork and the whole process takes just minutes. If you arrive unprepared, we may have to delay your hire — so it pays to check before you arrive.

Why We Need Your Documents

Your Collection Checklist

Got everything ready? Here's exactly what to bring with you on collection day.

Valid Driving Licence

Bring your current physical photocard driving licence. We need to see the genuine card, not a photo or copy.

You’ll also need to share your driving record with us. There are two easy ways to do this:

  • DVLA check code — Generate this in advance on the DVLA website and bring it with you.
  • National Insurance number — If you don’t have a code, bring your NI number and we’ll help you create one at the desk.
Your Collection Checklist

Primary Payment Card

Payment Requirements

You'll need a physical credit or debit card to pay for your hire and secure the deposit. A few simple rules apply:

  • Main driver’s card only — The card must belong to the main driver.
  • Driver present — The main driver must be present during collection.
  • No digital wallets — We cannot accept Apple Pay or Google Pay for the security deposit.
Primary Payment Card

Two Proofs of Address

Proof of Address

Please bring two recent documents that confirm your home address. Acceptable examples include:

  • Bank statements — Dated within the last six weeks.
  • Utility bills — Dated within the last six weeks.

The name and address on both documents must match the details on your driving licence exactly. Mismatched details can hold up your collection, so please double-check before you set off.

Two Proofs of Address

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have a question or two? Here are the ones we hear most often.


A photocard licence is our standard requirement, as it lets us verify your photo and details quickly. If you only hold an older paper licence, please call us before collection day so we can talk you through your options.


The payment card must belong to the main driver, who needs to be present at collection. This protects you against fraud and keeps your insurance valid. If you have a particular arrangement in mind, get in touch and we'll explain what's possible.


We can sometimes accept international licences, depending on the type and where it was issued. Requirements vary, so please contact our team before you visit. We'll confirm exactly what you need to bring.

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Ready to Collect Your Vehicle?

The right paperwork means a fast, simple handover and more time on the road. Not sure whether you have everything you need? Our friendly local team in Rochester is always happy to help.

Give us a call before your collection day and we'll make sure you're fully prepared — or book your vehicle online in minutes.

Get a quote

Or call us today on 01634 722289