Fleets are being urged to book rental cars early, after rental companies revealed an increase in bookings is putting major providers under pressure.

Shortages are not unusual during the holiday period, but the problem has been exacerbated this year with manufacturers cutting production due to the uncertain economy.

Anticipating potential hire fleet shortages after experiencing a strong growth in the daily rental sector, Zenith Provecta has broadened its supplier base.

Although National Car Rental remains the company’s primary supplier, it has recently added Avis and Enterprise to meet demand.

The shortage has also led to major providers, such as Hertz, encouraging customers to plan ahead.

Dave Alexander, operations director at Europcar UK Group, admitted they were in a more fortunate position than most.

“We have greater access to a wider range of funding and fleet options, which has enabled Europcar to gear up for the summer demand,” added Alexander.