This guide concerns French VTC operations. Platform access can bring requests after account approval, but does not guarantee volume. A direct customer portfolio gives you more control over the relationship while making you responsible for pricing, reservations, payment and follow-up.
Different work behind the same fare
| Task | Platform bookings | Direct customers |
|---|---|---|
| Finding work | Requests depend on the service, account and local demand | Prospecting, referrals and repeat business take time |
| Price and fees | Check your current contract and statements | Prepare a quote covering the full service and payment costs |
| Customer administration | Some workflow is handled through the app | Confirm reservations, issue invoices and manage changes |
| Risk | Dependence on an intermediary and account terms | Unpaid invoices, cancellations and gaps in demand |
Four bookings compared
All figures are assumptions, not current platform rates or recommended tariffs. Suppose four services each bring EUR 60, or EUR 240 total, under French VAT exemption. Assume the same EUR 72 vehicle-and-energy cost for both channels.
For a platform, assume EUR 48 total commission. The balance is 240 - 48 - 72 = EUR 120 before contributions and taxes. For direct bookings, assume EUR 8 payment costs and EUR 40 acquisition cost allocated to the four bookings: 240 - 8 - 72 - 40 = EUR 120.
The direct channel is not automatically better in the first period. If the same customer books again next month without new acquisition spending, the assumed direct balance becomes EUR 160. That is a scenario, not a promise of loyalty; booking administration and actual working hours still count. Do not treat the EUR 40 acquisition allocation as a measured saving in time.
Write the service before quoting
Specify pickup and destination, date and time, luggage needs, included waiting, payment arrangements and cancellation terms. Calculate total travel including empty return mileage. Keep the legally required prior-booking evidence using the applicable French rules; a quote alone does not necessarily contain every required item.
Retain customer data only as needed for the service and your lawful record-keeping obligations. Handle promotional follow-up separately rather than assuming a booking gives permission for all future marketing.
Test a mixed approach without double booking
Reserve time for confirmed direct work and use platforms only where you can meet accepted commitments. Record prospecting hours and unpaid administrative work alongside driving. Track each channel's receipts and costs over several periods.
Choose a manageable experiment, such as making a clear quote template and measuring how many suitable enquiries become completed paid bookings. Do not make a vehicle commitment depend on customers you have not yet acquired. Direct work remains subject to the same French professional and operating obligations.
Sources and scope
Service Public: French booking channels and prior reservations
The legal and tax references concern France. Examples are illustrative unless expressly attributed to a source; they are not tariffs or promised results.