THE MOST IMPORTANT RENTAL CAR TIPS FOR PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF
Just like booking a rental car, picking up and returning the car are usually quick and easy. We have put together the most important tips for pick-up and return so that newcomers to rental cars can also walk to the counter without any worries.
Rental car collection: this is how you get your rental car quickly and easily!
1. At the accurate time in the accurate place
When booking, make sure that you specify the time at which you can really arrive at the rental car counter as the pick-up time, because pick-up time is binding. If you are late (as a rule of thumb, approx. 30 minutes applies here), the rental company can pass on your rental car. Find out in advance where the rental car counter is and how long it will take you to get there from the plane or home. If you should be late, please let the rental company know. The pick-up station number is on your voucher.
2. Are all documents ready?
Make sure you have all your important documents on hand, when you are going to rent a car in Lahore. This saves time at the rental car counter and guarantees that the rental car can be handed over to you. In addition to the voucher, you need your driver's license, your ID card or passport, your credit card (possibly including PIN), and possibly the confirmation show. Attention: Be sure to print out the voucher. Hardly any rental company accepts the digital version on your smartphone.
3. Question upgrades and avoid additional costs
Some car rental firms try to sell unnecessary extra insurance or extras at the counter. Low-cost providers, in particular, are dependent on such additional income and the counter employees want to convince you of the importance of such insurance. Only one thing can help here: stay calm and determined. If the counter employee offers you an upgrade, you should inquire about the costs directly so that they are not cheated into the rental agreement unnoticed.
4. Read the rental agreement carefully
Speaking of the rental agreement: even if it takes some time, read the rental agreement and ask questions if anything is unclear. Once the rental agreement has been signed, all of the points listed there are binding - including any costs for upgrades or extras. But don't worry: it is really the absolute exception that a rental company wants to sneak something off of you in the lease. In most cases, the rental agreement is only a necessary standard document and largely corresponds to the rental conditions that you could see when booking.
5. Check the transfer protocol
You will always be given a handover protocol with your rental car. There are any old damage recorded. Take a moment to check that all damage has been entered correctly. In this way, you ensure that you will not be charged for damage later that you did not cause. You should also keep the handover protocol in a safe place, you will usually have to show it again when you return it.
6. Hold the tank level
Just before you set off, take a quick snapshot of the current tank level. If you have classically booked your car with the "full/full" fuel policy, you do not necessarily have to return the car with a full tank. The tank must be filled as much as it was when you picked it up. A photo serves as a reminder and, if necessary, as evidence.
Return of the rental car: painless goodbye in five steps
1. Prepare a clean handover
Sand, crumbs, earth, and dust: a rental car can go through a lot on an exciting road trip. And that's perfectly fine too. Nevertheless, make sure that you return the rental car in an acceptable condition. Throw away your trash and shake out the floor mats once. If you bring the rental car back heavily soiled, a cleaning fee may apply. However, this only applies to the interior, you do not have to take the car to the car wash.
2. Fill the tank
If you have booked a car with a fair fuel policy ("full / full"), you must bring the car back with the same fuel level. It is best to find a gas station near the station in advance and refuel shortly before you return. A photo of the fuel level on return and the fuel receipt will help if questions about the fuel level arise afterwards.
3. At the right time in the right place, part 2
Plan enough time for the return, because there can also be waiting times at the rental car counter. Take the time to briefly inspect the rental car with the on-site employee and still get to your plane relaxed - this will keep your holiday feeling a little longer.
4. Just to be on the safe side: note the condition of the car
Even if you do a correct handover with the rental company, it can be helpful to take a few photos of your rental car. If you are later accused of damage, you have something in hand. It is very improbable that something like this will happen, quickly taking a few photos of the interior, the wheels, and mileage, as well as some exterior shots, but it is quick and worthwhile in an emergency.
5. Request return confirmation
Last but not least: Have a short written confirmation of the return. This means that you have written confirmation that you have returned your rental car on time and in good condition and can travel home relaxed.
