The Car Hire Procedure: Things to Think About
Car or van rental is a common practice for those on holiday and wishing to explore, or moving house and needing to shift a few heavier items. Giving you the freedom that public transport can’t provide, vehicle rental is a popular choice for many reasons.
Although usually a fairly easy process, there are a few considerations that must be made when renting a car or other vehicle, ranging from correct documentation to your own personal requirements. Here are just a few…
Before the Hire
It might sound obvious, but deciding exactly how long you need a car for, how large a vehicle you require and where you wish to collect it from is essential before selecting a car hire company. Knowing exactly what your requirements are will help you to narrow down your options regarding price, giving you a clearer idea of what you can expect to pay.
Ensuring that you have the correct documentation is also important. A full and valid driver’s licence that has been in your possession for over a year (although some companies require two years) is compulsory, and many car hire outlets will require the driver to be of a minimum age of around 23 (although some accept 21). It’s important to note that hire prices might be considerably higher for drivers under the age of 25, and certain vehicles might not be available for rental for younger drivers.
Study carefully the hire agreement before you sign, making a note of any specifications regarding mileage limits, how full the fuel tank is expected to be on return, any unique operational features of the vehicle and any other charges you may incur for damage or late return. Consider all insurance options, and bear in mind that the inclusion of a second driver in the hire agreement is usually charged for.
After selecting your car hire deal, be sure to check the vehicle fully before driving away from the hire premises. This is to ensure that you are not held accountable for any pre-existing marks, scratches and dents upon returning the vehicle. Take photos of any damage if you’re concerned about this.
During the Hire
Make sure that you are fully aware of all driving laws and regulations, especially if you are not a UK resident, and take the time to get used to driving an unfamiliar car before you take to the busier roads and motorways.
Many car hire companies will provide AA or RAC breakdown cover with every rental (check when booking), but be sure to leave enough space in your time and budget to refill the tank before returning the vehicle.
If your car does not come with a satellite navigation system installed, many smartphones now allow for GPS tracking, providing you with maps of the local area. As with all long journeys, take plenty of breaks to ward of fatigue, and don’t drive if you feel tired in any way.
Some car hire firms will allow for “one-way” rentals, where the vehicle is dropped off at a different branch of the company to where it is collected. If this is the case, and you have opted for this, make sure you’re aware of the exact location of the return hire branch to avoid a late drop-off.
Be sure to keep an emergency number for the car hire firm to hand in the vehicle in the event of a breakdown or fault.
Returning the Car
When returning the car, check whether the car hire company expects you to drop the vehicle off at a particular timeslot on your return date, and give yourself enough time to manage this.
It’s worth your while sticking around while the car is inspected, ensuring that no pre-existing bumps and scratches can be pinned on you and taken from your deposit. Similarly, make sure you thoroughly check your statements and bills when you are charged the final amount. The quicker you question any erroneous charges, the better chance you have of it being rectified.
Written by Gatwick Car and Van Rental