What About Rates?
Motorists can get confused when rates are discussed. Rent-a-car rates are based on a series of variable factors which include:
* Type and size of car;
* How long you plan to keep the car;
* Gasoline charges;
* Mileage charges;
* Insurance coverages;
* Waivers (CDW/LDW);
* Drop-off charges;
* Taxes;
* Time of week; and
* Season of year.
Car rental companies frequently offer two types of rates: a daily rate with a mileage charge, and a rate that includes free mileage (or specified number of free miles per day). Weekly rates, also, are available. Remember that specific rates vary from city to city.
Rates are often based on a 24-hour period with a one-hour grace period. If you keep the car more than four hours after this period, it may be less expensive to keep it another day, since hourly overtime charges may be high. Also, some rates such as weekend specials are only available during certain time periods. The rate you pay may change if you keep the car beyond that time.
Promotional or special rates that are lower than regular rates also may be available. Car rental arrangements are sometimes offered in tour packages that include airfare and lodging.
Reputable car rental companies that advertise a certain rate will have on hand a sufficient number of cars to meet demand. However, you should check the ad to see if it discloses the number of cars available or if the advertised cars are available on a “limited,” or “first come, first served” basis. Also, check to see if the cars are available only at certain locations.
Most companies do not include the cost of gasoline in their rates. The tank is full when you pick up the car, and you pay for additional gas. Keep in mind that if you return the car without a full tank, you will be assessed a refueling charge by the car rental company which is often higher than gas station prices.
Also, when you return the car to a location other than where you picked it up, you may have to pay a “drop-off” charge. Find out what the requirements are when you make your reservations.
It is important not only to compare the rates of different firms, but to also check out the different plans offered by each company. Each type of plan offers certain advantages. To find out which type is most advantageous for you, consider how long you will want the car and the approximate number of miles you plan to drive. Then add up the cost both ways in order to find the plan that will save you the most money, yet offer the services you need.
An important consideration in any comparison of cost is to make sure that you are comparing similar types of cars, comparable insurance coverage and other personal considerations including drop-off privileges. It is a good idea to be cautious and to check out any company that advertises a rate that seems unrealistically low.
Do: Check all available rates and the services included in these rates against your requirements.
Don’t: Let advertised “cut-rate” claims confuse you about real costs and services provided in the rental.