A new vehicle inspection and damage collection service has been launched by Manheim DeFleet Services to improve the recovery of end-of-contract damage and excess mileage liability costs from drivers.

A new agreement with Close Credit Management (CCM) means that fleet managers should see reduced administration costs and quicker recovery of money owed by drivers.

Several leading finance, fleet, leasing and contract hire companies are trialling the service and GMAC has already signed-up.

Under this new service, when a vehicle reaches the end of its fleet life, an inspector will examine the car for damage with the driver present.

Using hand-held technology, any damage outside fair wear and tear and any missing components are costed and signed for by the driver.

The electronic vehicle condition report is transmitted to CCM, enabling it to contact the customer within 24 to 48 hours to recover the damage and excess mileage liability detailed within the report, resulting in days and sometimes weeks being taken out of the credit control and collection process.