Build Checklist — Going Private
🏢
LLC FORMATION
Zenith Rides LLC is already formed. Keep registered agent current and file annual reports in Maryland.
✓ Complete
🛡️
COMMERCIAL FLEET INSURANCE
Get quotes from Progressive Commercial, State Farm, and Nationwide. Target: $300–600/vehicle/year. Get this 6 months before going private.
→ Next Step
💳
STRIPE PAYMENTS
Set up Stripe for direct card payments and security deposit holds ($300–500). Integrate with site booking flow.
→ Planned
🪪
LICENSE VERIFICATION
Stripe Identity — $1.50/verification. Automatically scans and verifies driver's license before rental is confirmed.
→ Planned
📜
RENTAL AGREEMENT
Custom Maryland rental contract covering liability, fuel policy, damage assessment, mileage limits, and late return fees. Get reviewed by MD attorney.
⏳ Pending
📅
BOOKING CALENDAR
Per-vehicle availability calendar with real-time booking and confirmation emails. Build directly into driveeasemd.com.
⏳ Pending
🔍
DRIVING RECORD CHECKS
Checkr background + MVR checks (~$15/renter). Required for longer rentals and corporate accounts.
⏳ Pending
🏢
CORPORATE ACCOUNTS
Outreach to HR depts at Amazon, Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen in Columbia/Elkridge area. Weekly rates for relocating employees.
⏳ Pending
PRIVATE PRICING STRATEGY
Suggested direct booking rates (Turo takes ~28% — going private recovers this margin)
| Vehicle | Turo Rate | Turo Keeps (~28%) | Your Take | Private Rate | Private Profit |
|---|
| 2021 VW Atlas | $166 | ~$46 | ~$120 | $149 | $149 |
| 2022 VW Taos SE | $245 | ~$69 | ~$176 | $219 | $219 |
| 2016 VW Tiguan S | $125 | ~$35 | ~$90 | $112 | $112 |
| 2019 VW Jetta SE | $129 | ~$36 | ~$93 | $115 | $115 |
| 2017 VW Jetta GLI | $125 | ~$35 | ~$90 | $112 | $112 |
| 2017 Toyota Corolla | $125 | ~$35 | ~$90 | $112 | $112 |
| Nissan Versa (all) | $104–121 | ~$29–34 | ~$75–87 | $95–109 | $95–109 |
🧠 STRATEGIC NOTES
- Don't leave Turo all at once — transition your top 3–4 cars first to test private ops
- Insurance cost (~$500/car/year) = $4.17/day per car — easily absorbed at these rates
- Security deposit: $350 hold on credit card via Stripe, released within 48hrs of return
- Damage waiver option: flat $20/day non-refundable — simpler than deposit for short trips
- Break-even on going private: ~8 trips/month per vehicle covers insurance cost
- Target Turo exit: when fleet hits 18–20 cars or monthly revenue exceeds $15k
- Keep driveeasemd.com Turo links active until private booking is fully tested
Premium SUV
