Have you ever tried to run an event without using a proper communication tool? It is a feat that’s hard to imagine. Your site manager may fail to reach other staff due to a lack of signal on his mobile phone. In this case, the best option is a two-way radio service in the UK. It’s natural to consider the factors to keep the budget under control. Experts recommend looking at cost factors such as hire time, coverage, and headcount.
What’s Driving the Cost of the Two-way Radio Service
Hire or Purchase
Short-term radio hire for festivals and county shows is counted per day. Compared with weekend packages, weekday packages usually cost less. However, check whether VAT is included in the total cost. During peak demand between May and September, charges are higher than in other seasons. For this reason, it is best to book the service as soon as possible to avoid additional costs. If you use communication year-round, it only makes sense then to buy devices. For temporary or seasonal utilisation, hiring is the best option and costs less.
Ofcom Licensing
Licence-free radios don’t cost much. However, they share a common, congested channel that everyone on site uses. If you require a customised service, it is best to get a licensed frequency from Ofcom. Radio services can do the job for you when you hire a device. This gives you smooth communication without the hassle. Licensing costs in the UK for a Simple Site Light Licence are usually lower than the Technically Assigned Licence for a larger site. Suppliers hold the licence and cover the price whenever you need them. Therefore, radio hire is best for a one-time event.
Coverage in British Venues
Coverage is often a hidden cost. Listed churches, Victorian brickworks, and steel-frame exhibition halls often swallow signal. For a small venue, handsets are enough. If it is a sprawling ground or a multi-storied site, then experts recommend using a repeater or leaky feeder, which increases the cost. A site survey is necessary to understand the requirements. However, reliable radio service providers can prevent additional costs by offering the best devices at the best price.
Accessories, Delivery and On-Site Cover
Hire services always offer bundled services. A two-way radio system includes earpieces and batteries. For the British weather, IP-rated handsets are the best option. For hire services, same-day service is available. Expert suppliers always offer the services at competitive prices. If required, staff can stay with you to solve issues.
Headcount and Channel Structure
Ten radios for a medium-sized event are usually different from a security service for a medical facility using 100 radios. Here, a complex setup increases the cost of purchasing them. Each team needs to use separate channels and advanced equipment. For this reason, renting the radios is best to keep costs down.
If you are looking for a two-way communication service in the UK, you must explain your requirements in detail. To get an accurate quote from a reliable service, inform them of the venue type, crew size, and duration. We ensure same-day service. Contact us today.
