Shortlease vs. Traditional Lease: Which is the Best Choice for You?

The biggest difference: duration and flexibility

The most fundamental difference between traditional lease and short lease lies in the naming: the duration of the contract.

• Traditional Lease: Here you are entering into a long-term financial commitment. Contracts usually have a duration of 24, 36, 48 or even 60 months. This long term means a lower monthly price, but offers virtually no flexibility. Terminating a contract early often involves high costs.
• Short lease: You lease a car for a short, convenient period, starting from one month. After this first month, the contract with VWP Shortlease can be canceled monthly. This flexibility is ideal for those who do not want or cannot be tied to a contract for years.

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Cost structure: short versus long term security

Although both types of lease work with an all-in monthly fee (including insurance, maintenance, repairs, tires and road tax), there are differences in pricing.

• Traditional Lease: Due to the long term, the leasing company can spread the costs over a longer period, resulting in a lower monthly amount. You pay to be sure of a fixed low price over several years.
• Short lease: The monthly amount for a short lease car is usually slightly higher. You pay for the flexibility and freedom to terminate the contract any time after the first month. You run no financial risk under changing circumstances. At VWP Shortlease, you can be sure that you will never pay for a car that you no longer need or can't afford.

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Who is it suitable for?

The choice between short lease and traditional lease depends entirely on your situation and future expectations.

Traditional Lease is suitable for:

• Security seekers: Drivers who know exactly that they need a car in the next 3 to 5 years and want the lowest monthly price possible.
• Stability: When your business or life situation is stable and you don't expect major changes.

VWP Shortlease is the perfect choice for:

• Startups and freelancers: Entrepreneurs who are not yet able to submit annual financial results or who need the flexibility to scale up quickly.
• Companies with a flexible shell: Ideal for absorbing seasonal peaks, projects with an end date or deploying staff on a trial basis.
• Temporary solutions: As a bridge to the delivery of a new (lease) car.
• Individuals in change: For example, with a temporary job or if you just don't want to be stuck to one car for years.

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Conclusion: the right choice for your situation

So the question isn't so much “what's better?” , but “what's better for me?”. Do you need the lowest possible monthly price and is a long-term commitment no problem? Then traditional leasing may be appropriate.

But in today's rapidly changing world, it's actually unnecessary and old-fashioned to be stuck with a lease contract for several years. So are you looking for real freedom, flexibility and do you want to avoid the risk of a long-term contract? Then short lease is the better option. You pay a fraction more for an enormous dose of convenience and the certainty that your fleet changes with the dynamics of your company or private situation.

Do you want personal advice on the best mobility solution for your situation? Then feel free to contact join the VWP Shortlease team. Thanks to more than 20 years of experience, we always find a solution that's perfect for you. We would love to think along with you!