What to look out for when renting a car?
Renting a car, an attractive option when you are moving house or going away for a weekend, for instance . However, before you take the keys to the rental car, it is wise to pay attention to a few things. Curious about what? Then read on quickly and prepare yourself well for renting a car.
Before renting
Car rental, many companies in the Netherlands offer it. Through the providers, how do you spot the best deal? To find a rental car that meets all your needs, comparing providers is essential.Compare them with other local and national car rental companies. Don’t stare blindly at car rental rates, but also take a good look at what you get for your money.
In many cases, car rental companies indicate that a car from a certain class can be hired. When picking up, however, it is not unusual to be offered a different car, than the one pictured. Don’t run this risk and make clear arrangements about the rental car you take with you. Also mention in your booking if you want a navigation system or, for example, a child seat. Again, if you don’t, you run the risk of these accessories not being available during the rental period.
Other things to look out for when comparing car rentals are:
- Are other people allowed to drive the car?
- What are the conditions imposed on the driver?
- What is insured and which things are covered by the excess?
- When and how is payment made?
- What deposit is required?
- Are there any general terms and conditions?
Weigh all the issues for yourself and choose the car hire company that has the best deal for you.
When picking up the rental car
Once you have chosen a car hire company and made a reservation, it is time to pick up the car. Again, there are three things to pay attention to. First of all, it is important that you bring all the papers required by the car rental company. Wondering what these papers are for? Then check with the rental company.
It is also wise to check the condition of the car before taking it with you. Are there any visible damages, such as dents and scratches? Have the rental company put this down in writing in the rental agreement. This will prevent you from paying for these damages after the rental period. Finally, it is advisable to make a note of the lessor’s emergency number. You don’t have to assume anything will go wrong, but if something does happen, you can call quickly.
In the rental period
Because you read yourself well before renting a car, you will enjoy what you have rented during the rental period. Only when problems arise is it necessary to have contact with the rental company. This is the case when damage occurred during the rental period or when the car cannot be returned on time. In both cases, consult what you can best do.
When returning the hire car
After a fine rental period, the car has to be returned. Again, there are three things you need to pay attention to. First, does the car contain the agreed amount of petrol? No, make sure you fill up the car more fully. This is because the charges for this afterwards are higher than the petrol or diesel rates. Furthermore, it is important to revisit the condition of the car with the lessor. Have the rental company record in the agreement that the car does not contain any damage. Finally, it is smart to check the bill. After all, a mistake is easy to make.
