Car rental is a great way to get around while you’re travelling. However, you should be aware of certain fees and restrictions that may apply to your rental.
Before you rent a vehicle, make sure to comparison shop online. Be sure to check prices and double-check that the prices include all fees and taxes.
Check the Vehicle’s Condition
Depending on where you live, your own car or homeowner’s insurance may provide all or part of the protection that rental companies try to sell you at their counters. Credit cards also sometimes include car rental coverage, which is why it’s worth checking with your provider ahead of time.
Inspect the interior and exterior of the vehicle with an agent before you drive away, and document any existing damage. This will help you avoid any additional charges upon return.
In addition to the insurance that the car rental company provides, you will likely be offered several other types of supplemental insurance/waiver products for an extra cost. These typically consist of Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and Personal Effects Coverage (PEC). Be careful, as some of these coverages are not available in all states or countries, and they may be excluded from your coverage if you violate the terms of your contract.
Inspect the Vehicle Before You Drive Away
Before you take off in your rental vehicle, inspect it for signs of damage. The last thing you want is to be held responsible for a wrecked car that is not your fault, so make sure to do this thoroughly. It will take a little time, but it is worth the effort.
Take pictures of the vehicle from various angles before you drive away, and write down your findings. This will help you in case there is a dispute later on about the condition of the car.
The best way to do this is to hire a professional inspector. They will focus on the mechanical nitty-gritty and can save you a lot of money. If you cannot afford to hire an inspection service, try taking the car to another local mechanic who has experience with that make and model. This will ensure that the person inspecting the vehicle is not biased and can spot issues you may miss.
Make Sure You Return the Vehicle on Time
A late return of a rental car can add up quickly. Many companies offer a grace period, but once that ends they charge hourly fees for every day the vehicle is beyond its agreed upon time.
Some agencies also charge extra for returning a vehicle at a different location than where it was picked up. So, try to stick with the same drop-off point whenever possible.
Before you return the vehicle, perform a full inspection with an agent. Check the interior and exterior and make note of any dents or other damages. Although most agencies will ignore small dents and scratches from normal wear and Autovermietung Gelsenkirchen tear, it’s best to be safe than sorry.
Most rental companies place a "block" on your debit or credit card for the total cost of the rental, plus a small buffer amount. It takes two days for this block to clear after the company checks back in the vehicle. In the meantime, if you need to use that credit or debit card for any other reason, be careful.
