Safety
When looking for a rental car company that will pick you up, safety is always a primary concern. You want to make sure that not only is the company reputable, but also that its vehicles are reliable and regularly inspected for any potential issues. Many companies offer vehicle tracking to ensure their pick-up locations are properly monitored, both for your own protection and for the peace of mind of their customers.
Many rental car companies have built strong safety records by implementing strict safety protocols. For example, Avis rental cars require all passengers to wear seat belts and comply with speed limits at all times. At Hertz, all vehicles must pass rigorous inspections before they can provide service, and all drivers must also pass a thorough background check. All reputable companies also provide 24/7 roadside assistance and around the clock customer service.
Costs
When renting a car, you obviously want to make sure the cost is within your budget. However, depending on when you need the car, the costs can vary significantly. Companies generally offer different packages depending on the length of rental, the type of vehicle desired, and any added benefits or extras you might require. Many companies also offer discounts for both first-time and returning customers.
If you need a car on short notice, you may be able to get a better rate by booking through a service like Turo. Turo is an online marketplace that connects travelers with local car owners willing to rent their vehicles. Although rates may be higher than those offered by most rental car companies, you’ll have more options for discounts and additional savings.
Availability
When you need a rental car, the last thing you want is to be sent to a location that doesn’t have the vehicle you need. To avoid this problem, always check with the company first to make sure they have the type of car you need in the location you need it. Most rental car companies have locations in multiple cities, but some may have limitations on size and availability. It’s also a good idea to check ahead to see what type of service the company offers in each area.
It’s also important to consider the type of pickup service the company provides. Many rental car companies offer same-day pickup, but others may require you to make an appointment or call in advance. Some companies, like Enterprise, also offer an app that allows users to book, manage, and track their car rental in real-time.
Customer Service
When you’re looking for a car rental company, you want to make sure they offer great customer service. The quality of customer service can make or break a customer experience, so it’s essential to find a company with an experienced, knowledgeable staff. Renting a car should be an easy, stress-free process and a good customer service team will make sure it is.
You should also look for a company with the latest technologies, such as online booking and payment portals, to ensure the entire rental process is streamlined and efficient. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz offer helpful online tools and service aides, such as rental guides and vehicle safety checklists to make it easy for customers to understand the terms and conditions of their rentals.
Location & Convenience
The last thing to consider is the convenience of the car rental company’s location. If you’re traveling to a busy area or in a rush, it’s best to find a location near your destination. This will save you time and hassle, as you won’t have to go out of your way to get the car you need. Luckily, many rental car companies have locations throughout the country and offer pick up and drop off services.
For extra convenience, you may want to look for companies that offer curbside pickup and in-terminal pickup services. For example, Enterprise offers pickup and return services at most of its airport locations, allowing customers to quickly rent and return vehicles without ever having to leave the airport.
Insurance & Protection
When renting a car, it’s important to consider what kind of insurance and protection you have. Most reputable rental car companies offer both limited and full protection plans, so it’s a good idea to research the company’s policies before making your decision. These plans can vary significantly, so it’s important to understand exactly what you’re signing up for.
In addition to insurance, many rental car companies also offer things like tire and windshield protection, rental car theft and damage reimbursement, and emergency roadside assistance. These extra perks can provide valuable peace of mind, so it’s important to consider which ones you might need before renting a car.
Loyalty Programs & Discounts
Finally, it’s important to consider loyalty programs and discounts offered by the rental car company. Many companies offer recurring rewards and discounts for members of their loyalty programs, so it’s a good idea to check and see what kind of savings you could get. Some companies, like Hertz, offer additional benefits to members such as discounted rates and free upgrades.
It’s also important to look out for discounts offered by credit card companies, airlines, and other businesses. Many of these companies have partnerships with rental car companies and offer discounts for using their services. By researching the available discounts and programs, you can save money and get additional benefits for your rental.
Benefits & Bonuses
Also to consider when searching for a rental car company that will pick you up are the benefits and bonuses they offer. These can range from additional perks such as discounts on fuel, additional drivers, and upgrades, to more tangible benefits such as dedicated check-in and priority lines. Many companies also offer additional rewards such as free miles and points for frequent travelers.
It’s also important to look out for companies that offer rewards for referrals. A referral program can be a great way to save money on rental fees while also helping your friends and family save money as well. So make sure to check and see if the rental car company you’re considering has a rewards program.
Customer Reviews & Ratings
Finally, make sure to read customer reviews and ratings when searching for a rental car company. Sites like TripAdvisor are a great resource for reading about people’s experiences with various companies, and can give you an idea of which companies offer the best service. It’s also important to check out the company’s website and social media accounts to see what kind of customer service they provide.
One thing to note is that not all reviews are created equal. Be sure to pay attention to how the company responds to complaints and negative reviews, as this can be a good indication of how they handle customer service. It’s also a good idea to double-check ratings across multiple review sites, as this can help you get a more accurate picture of the company.
